Details
Stroke Order
Component Breakdown
岡 + sword
Cultural Context
Etymology
Composed of hill and sword. Strong like sword.
Symbolism
Sturdy, diamond, strong. Represents strength.
Words & Expressions
Four-Character Compounds
外柔内剛
がいじゅうないごう
gentle but firm; gentle but firm
質実剛健
しつじつごうけん
unaffected and sincere, with fortitude and vigor (vigour); unaffected and sincere, with fortitude and vigor (vigour)
内柔外剛
ないじゅうがいごう
tough on the outside but soft at heart; tough on the outside but soft at heart
外剛内柔
がいごうないじゅう
being tough on the outside but soft at heart; a faint-hearted person pretending to be brave; being tough on the outside but soft at heart
内剛外柔
ないごうがいじゅう
gentle on the outside but tough on the inside; an iron hand in a velvet glove; gentle on the outside but tough on the inside
剛毅果断
ごうきかだん
dauntless and decisive; with fortitude and resolution; dauntless and decisive
金剛不壊
こんごうふえ
firm and solid; sturdy and indestructible; unshakable; firm and solid
剛毅木訥
ごうきぼくとつ
Strong and unpretentious; Sturdy and honest in character
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 剛 mean in Japanese?
剛 means sturdy, strength.
How do you read 剛?
On'yomi: ゴウ (GOU).
How many strokes does 剛 have?
剛 has 10 strokes. Its radical is 刀 (knife).
Is 剛 a good kanji for a tattoo?
Yes. 剛 (sturdy, strength) has a clear positive meaning and no embarrassing alternate readings, making it a solid tattoo choice.
Explore by meaning:kanji for strength