This site will be taken down March 31st, 2026.

This was not an easy decision to make. For the last couple years, I have been struggling to find motivation for this site and to keep up with basic maintenance and security updates. With the rise of AI and more sophisticated tools, the usefulness of sites like this is questionable and traffic has nose-dived. I just don't have it in me to keep doing this. Thank you all for 10 years of support!

Zach

堅苦しい

固苦しい

Readings

Kana: かたくるしい、かたぐるしい
Romaji: katakurushii, katagurushii
Kana
Romaji

Definition

1

formal; strict; ceremonious; stiff

Kanji

Readings: ケン、 かた.い、 -がた.い
Meanings: strict, hard, solid, tough, tight, reliable
Readings: ク、 くる.しい、 -ぐる.しい、 くる.しむ、 くる.しめる、 にが.い、 にが.る
Meanings: suffering, trial, worry, hardship, feel bitter, scowl
Readings: コ、 かた.める、 かた.まる、 かた.まり、 かた.い
Meanings: harden, set, clot, curdle

Example Sentences

(かれ)私達(わたしたち)(たい)して(じつ)堅苦(かたくる)しい。
➥He is very formal with us.
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(かれ)態度(たいど)軍人(ぐんじん)らしく堅苦(かたくる)しかった。
➥His bearing was stiff and military.
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堅苦(かたくる)しく(かんが)えないで、くつろいでください。
➥Don't stand on ceremony. Just make yourself at home.
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堅苦(かたくる)しいことはぬきにしましょう。
➥Let's dispense with formalities.
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堅苦(かたくる)しい礼儀(れいぎ)(いち)切抜(きりぬ)きにしましょう。
➥Let's do away with all formalities.
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