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JLPT N16画 · 6 strokesradical 士freq #1657Jōyō kanji

robust, manhood, prosperity

On'yomi (音読み)

  • ソウ

Kun'yomi (訓読み)

  • さかん

Mnemonic

A strong man in a suit (士) stands tall, showcasing his robust physique and the prosperity of his manhood, embodying the essence of 壮.

About this kanji

The kanji 壮 (そう) primarily means "robust" or "magnificent" and is often used in nouns rather than verbs. You will come across it in compounds like 壮行 (そうこう), which means a lively send-off, often for someone embarking on a journey. Another common compound is 壮大 (そうだい), meaning magnificent, conveying a sense of grandeur. The term 壮年 (そうねん) refers to the prime of life, highlighting a period of strength and vitality. Additionally, 壮絶 (そうぜつ) describes something that is heroic and intense, often in the context of battles or bravery. A usage note to remember is that while it connotes strength and majesty, it may also evoke a sense of glory in both positive and serious contexts.

Example sentences

  • 壮大な景色に心を奪われた。

    I was captivated by the magnificent scenery.

Meanings across languages

English
robust, manhood, prosperity
Tiếng Việt
mạnh mẽ
日本語
壮大
한국어
건장
中文
壮
id
kuat
th
แข็งแรง
es
robusto
fr
robuste
de
kräftig
pt
robusto

Common compounds

  • 壮行そうこう(rousing) send-off, farewell
  • 壮大そうだいmagnificent, grand, majestic
  • 壮年そうねんprime of life
  • 悲壮ひそうtragic but brave, heroic, grim
  • 壮絶そうぜつheroic, fierce, grand
  • 勇壮ゆうそうheroic, brave, majestic
  • 壮観そうかんmagnificent spectacle, thrilling sight, grand view
  • 強壮きょうそうable-bodied, robust, sturdy

Words using this kanji

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