1.
brave, admirable, touching, commendable
Describes someone (especially children, the weak, or those in difficult circumstances) who shows courage, determination, or effort despite hardship. Evokes a sense of sympathy and admiration.
健気に頑張る姿に感動した。
I was moved by the way they bravely persevered.
小さな体で健気に働く子供。
A child bravely working with their small body.
彼女の健気な努力は皆を感動させた。
Her admirable efforts moved everyone.
病気と闘う健気な患者さん。
A patient bravely fighting their illness.
ADJECTIVE FORMS:
- 健気な (attributive)
- 健気に (adverbial)
- 健気だ (predicative)
- 健気さ (noun form)
NUANCE: This word is typically used for:
- Children trying hard despite difficulties
- The weak or disadvantaged showing courage
- People facing adversity with determination
- Small animals or plants surviving against odds
It implies that the speaker feels both admiration and sympathy for the subject.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 健気に頑張る - to bravely persevere
- 健気な姿 - brave/touching figure
- 健気な努力 - admirable efforts
- 健気に耐える - to bear bravely
USAGE NOTE: While positive, using 健気 to describe adults in normal circumstances can come across as patronizing. It's best used for situations where there's a notable disparity between the challenge and the person's apparent resources.
RELATED WORDS:
- 勇敢 - brave, courageous (more heroic)
- いじらしい - pitiable in a touching way
- 涙ぐましい - tear-inducing, touching