刚 (gāng) - firm & hard

刚Tone 1

gāng ｜ 6 strokes ｜ radical: 刂

枫惠

刚 · gāng

firm;

hard;

strong;

just;

exactly;

barely;

only a short while ago

firmhardstrong

Usage highlights

just nowstrong and resolutefirm and unyieldingsteelupright and outspokenstubborn

Synonyms

  • 强— strong; powerful
  • 硬— hard; firm
  • 坚— firm; solid
  • 毅— resolute; determined

Antonyms

  • 柔— soft; gentle
  • 弱— weak; feeble
  • 软— soft; flexible

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • He has a strong will (刚强的意志).
  • I just arrived (我刚到).
  • The knife is very sharp (这把刀很刚).
  • He barely passed the exam (他刚及格).

Collocations

  • just now(刚才)
  • strong and resolute(刚强)
  • firm and unyielding(刚毅)
  • steel(钢铁)
  • upright and outspoken(刚正)
  • stubborn(刚愎)

Idioms

  • To break a tough nut with a strong will(以刚克刚)
  • Firm and resolute, not easily swayed(刚正不阿)
  • Inner softness and outer strength(内柔外刚)
  • Just at the right moment(恰到刚处)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • In Chinese philosophy, 刚 represents the Yang principle - masculine, strong, and unyielding.
  • Traditionally associated with moral integrity and strength of character in Confucian thought.
  • Considered an auspicious character in names, symbolizing strength and determination.

FAQ