What Is “Gasshiri”? The Japanese Word for Solid, Muscular, and Sturdy Build

02/28/2026

Have you ever seen someone with a strong, solid frame?
Or a sturdy pillar holding up a heavy structure?

In Japanese, that reliable, muscular, or firm form is described as “Gasshiri” (がっしり).

Let’s hear it first!

Table of Contents

What is “Gasshiri” (がっしり)?

“Gasshiri” is used to describe:

A solid, muscular body (broad shoulders, firm build)
Thick, well-built things (pillars, furniture)
An impression of strength, stability, and durability

Unlike slim or delicate features, gasshiri carries weight and presence.

Pronunciation

gah-sshiri
(Emphasize the first syllable with strength — like a firm stomp.)

What Does “Gasshiri” Look Like?

It looks like a broad-shouldered athlete.
Like a thick tree trunk or strong arms folded with confidence.
Like a presence that feels grounded and dependable.

How Do You Say It?

Say it firmly, like holding something heavy:
Gasshiri!

Examples in Daily Life

Example 1: Solid frame

He wasn’t tall,
but his body was gasshiri —
muscles built from real work.

Example 2: Reliable feel

The wooden table legs were thick,
with a gasshiri feel that didn’t wobble.

Cultural Note

In English, you might say:

“Well-built”
“Solid”
“Muscular” or “Sturdy”

But gasshiri gives that instant visual and tactile sense of something reliable and unshakable.
Commonly used in sports, physical descriptions, or to praise someone’s strong body type without being negative.