strong · sturdy

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 剛 has ten strokes and the on-reading ごう.
• Basic usage: It denotes stiffness or toughness, and strong power or forceful ability.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Hair texture and robustness
  • 剛毛(ごうもう) means coarse, stiff hair; 剛健(ごうけん) describes a robust body or a spirit of fortitude.
  • The amount of hair and its stiffness are different properties; 剛毛 does not simply mean a large amount of hair.
• A strong arm and forceful leadership
  • 剛腕(ごうわん) can describe a pitcher's strong arm or figuratively describe forceful skill in leading an organization.