1.
person who has experienced hardship; self-made person
Someone who has gone through significant difficulties and hardships in life. Often carries a positive nuance of resilience and maturity gained through struggle.
Usage
Generally used with a positive or sympathetic nuance, expressing respect for someone who has endured difficulties. It implies that the person has gained wisdom, empathy, or strength through their experiences.
Forms
苦労 (hardship) + 人 (person). Compare with similar 〜人 compounds like 商売人 (merchant) and 努力家 (hard worker).
Similar words
- 努力家: hard worker (focuses on effort, not hardship)
- 叩き上げ: self-made person (emphasizes rising from the bottom)