Japanese Conversation · Level 33
90 words
Japanese word
険しい
Pronunciation
Romajikewashii
Meaning
- i-adjectivesteep
Example
この山道は険しいです。ko no san dō wa kewa shi i de su
This mountain path is steep.
More examples
彼は険しい表情で、難しい質問に答えました。kare wa kewa shi i hyō jō de muzuka shi i shitsu mon ni kota e ma shi ta
He answered the difficult question with a stern expression.
Core concept
Marks something as difficult to pass through or endure, whether the obstacle is physical terrain or severe circumstances.
Common phrases
険しい山道kewa shi i san dō
steep mountain trail
険しい坂kewa shi i saka
steep slope
Similar words
厳しいkibishii: Describes conditions, rules, or demands that are severe and difficult to accept or endure.
きついkitsui: Describes a route, climb, or task that places a heavy physical burden on someone.
Definition in Japanese
道や地形などが傾斜や起伏のために通りにくく危険なさま。また、置かれた状況が厳しく容易に切り抜けられないさま。michi ya chi kei na do ga kei sha ya ki fuku no ta me ni tō ri ni ku ku ki ken na sa ma ma ta o ka re ta jō kyō ga kibi shi ku yō i ni ki ri nu ke ra re na i sa ma
Word origin
The Japanese native adjective 険しい (kewashii) combines 険 (kewa, "a steep or dangerous place") with the adjective ending しい (shii).
Usage tips
- The word 険しい (kewashii) often describes a stern facial expression in addition to a difficult route, showing that its sense of severity also applies to people.
Other meanings
- ruggedi-adjective
- harshi-adjective
Opposites
- 緩やかyuruyakagentlena-adjective
- なだらかnadarakagently slopingna-adjective
Related words
- 険しさkewashisasteepnessnoun