adjective HSK 5
Traditional 堅固
jiān
solid · firm · sturdy · strong

Meaning

坚固 describes something that is physically strong, durable, and resistant to damage or collapse. It emphasizes structural integrity and the ability to withstand force or wear over time. Commonly used for buildings, materials, relationships, or abstract concepts that have lasting strength.

Usage

Native speakers use 坚固 to describe concrete objects like walls, bridges, and furniture, as well as abstract things like friendships or foundations. It carries a positive connotation of reliability and durability. Often paired with verbs like 很 (very), 非常 (extremely), or 不够 (not enough).

Examples

  1. 01
    这座桥的结构非常坚固,可以使用一百年。
    Zhè zuò qiáo de jié gòu fēi cháng jiān , shǐ yòng bǎi nián.
    This bridge has a very solid structure and can be used for a hundred years.
  2. 02
    他们的友谊很坚固,经历了许多困难也没有分开。
    men de yǒu hěn jiān , jīng le duō kùn nán méi yǒu fēn kāi.
    Their friendship is very solid; they haven't separated despite experiencing many difficulties.

Characters

Common collocations

  • 坚固耐用
    jiān nài yòng
    sturdy and durable
  • 基础坚固
    chǔ jiān
    solid foundation
  • 结构坚固
    jié gòu jiān
    solid structure
  • 十分坚固
    shí fēn jiān
    extremely solid

Antonyms

Origin

Both characters reinforce the concept of strength: 坚 originally depicted hard earth or stone, while 固 shows an enclosure (囗) protecting something inside, suggesting security and stability.

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