Entry
がっしり
gasshiri
Describing a person with a solid, muscular build or an object with a sturdy, durable construction.
Meaning
Quick Meaning
Gasshiri is used to describe a physical state of being solid and well-built. It often refers to a person's physique, especially shoulders and chest, suggesting strength and stability. It is also applied to objects like buildings or furniture that are constructed firmly and appear unlikely to break or collapse.
- A strong and well-developed human physique.
- A sturdy and stable structure of objects or buildings.
Sense Map
Human Physique
Describes a body with strong muscles, thick bones, and a solid frame.
がっしりした体格
Object Construction
Describes items or structures that are built very strongly and are durable.
がっしりした作りの家具
Usage Note
How to Use
がっしりした + Noun
Used as an adjective to modify the following noun, such as physique or building.
がっしり（と）している
A verb form to express the current state of being sturdy or solid.
がっしりとした + Noun
A variation of the adjective form that puts more emphasis on the state of sturdiness.
How to Use
Common Phrases
がっしりした体格
sturdy physique
肩幅ががっしりしている
having broad, solid shoulders
がっしりした作り
sturdy construction
がっしりとした体つき
a solid body build
Nuance
Context Nuance
| Common Contexts | Nuance | Usage Note |
|---|---|---|
| Body Physique | positive | Implies strength, health, and a dependable physical presence. |
| Furniture/Structures | positive | Indicates high quality, durability, and a sense of safety. |
Similar Words
Comparison Table
| Similar Words | When to Use | Not the Same as | Mini Example |
|---|---|---|---|
しっかり しっかり / nearby | Used for general firmness, reliability, or doing something properly (like holding on tight). | Shikkari focuses more on function and mental reliability, whereas gasshiri focuses on physical bulk and frame. | 手すりをしっかり掴む |
むきむき むきむき / similar | Specifically used for very prominent, bulging muscles like those of a bodybuilder. | Mukimuki is just about muscle definition, while gasshiri is about the overall solid and sturdy frame of the body. | 筋トレでむきむきになる |
Usage Note
Common Mistakes
Using it to describe someone who is simply fat.
Gasshiri implies muscle and bone density, not just size from weight.
Using it for mental determination.
For mental strength or being reliable, use shikkari instead.
Examples
Examples
彼はスポーツ選手らしく、がっしりした体格をしている。
かれはスポーツせんしゅらしく、がっしりしたたいかくをしている。
He has a sturdy physique, just like an athlete.
LiteralExplains a strong physical build.
このテーブルはがっしりした作りで、重いものを載せても安心だ。
このテーブルはがっしりしたつくりで、おもいものをのせてもあんしんだ。
This table is sturdily built, so it is safe even if you put heavy things on it.
VisualEmphasizes the strength of the object's structure.
父の手は大きくてがっしりとしていた。
ちちのてはおおきくてがっしりとしていた。
My father's hands were large and felt very solid.
VisualDescribes a strong physical impression of the hands.
その古い洋館は、がっしりとした石造りの壁に守られていた。
そのふるいようかんは、がっしりとしたいしづくりのかべにまもられていた。
The old Western-style house was protected by sturdy stone walls.
VisualDescribes thick and strong walls.
兄は肩幅ががっしりしていて、どんな服もよく似合う。
あにはかたはばががっしりしていて、どんなふくもよくにあう。
My older brother has broad, sturdy shoulders, so any clothes look good on him.
LiteralShows the connection between sturdy shoulders and appearance.
Similar Words
しっかり
shikkari
Describes a state of being firm, secure, or doing something thoroughly and reliably. More general for mental reliability or function.
ガシッと
gashitto
To grab, hold, or catch something firmly and with power.
ムキムキ
mukimuki
Describes the physical appearance of having large, well-developed, and bulging muscles. Mukimuki is more specific to prominent muscles, while gasshiri describes an overall sturdy body or object.
Questions
Can gasshiri be used for women?
Yes, but it is more common for men as it emphasizes broad shoulders and a very powerful physical frame.
What is the difference between gasshiri and gatchiri?
They are very similar, but gatchiri often carries a nuance of being tightly packed or even being stingy/frugal with money.
Is gasshiri a rude word?
No, it is generally a compliment regarding someone's strength and healthy build.
Source Details
- Entry ID
- 1003200
- Source
- JMdict_english
- Revision
- -
- Review notes
- No special notes
- Active language
- English
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