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robust
Resilient, stable, and built to last, so that something withstands heavy strain.
example
Diese Wanderschuhe sind sehr robust und für jedes Gelände geeignet.
These hiking boots are very robust and suitable for any terrain.
robust
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Context clue
The meaning of 'robust' depends strongly on the noun it describes. With objects, it means 'stabil' (stable/sturdy); with people, 'kräftig' (strong); and with systems, 'widerstandsfähig' (resilient).
EXAMPLE
Mein altes Handy war sehr robust und ist nie kaputtgegangen.
My old phone was very robust and never broke.
Typical nouns (objects)
When referring to objects, 'robust' often describes things that have to withstand a lot. Typical combinations are 'robuste Schuhe' (robust shoes), 'robustes Material' (robust material), or 'robuste Möbel' (robust furniture).
EXAMPLE
Für die Gartenarbeit brauche ich eine robuste Hose.
For gardening, I need a robust pair of pants.
Typical nouns (people)
When 'robust' describes a person, it often refers to health or physique. Common phrases are 'eine robuste Gesundheit haben' (to have robust health) or 'ein robuster Charakter sein' (to be a robust character).
EXAMPLE
Trotz des kalten Wetters machte ihm die Wanderung nichts aus, er hat eine robuste Konstitution.
Despite the cold weather, the hike did not bother him; he has a robust constitution.
Figurative meaning
'Robust' can also be applied to abstract systems like the economy or IT. It then means that the system is stable and well protected against disruptions or crises.
EXAMPLE
Das Computersystem des Unternehmens ist robust gegen Hackerangriffe.
The company's computer system is robust against hacker attacks.
Compare with
robust vs stark
strong
'stark' and 'robust' can both describe that someone or something can withstand a lot. 'stark' emphasizes the strength itself, for example physical strength or inner strength. 'robust' emphasizes more that something is stable, healthy, or not easily affected, and does not quickly break or become weak under strain. For people, both can sound similar, but 'robust' fits especially when someone handles illness, stress, or exertion well. For things, 'robust' is often more precise than 'stark' when it is about durability.
robust
Für die Reise kauft Lena einen robusten Rucksack, der auch Regen gut aushält.
For the trip, Lena buys a robust backpack that can also handle rain well.
stark
Nach vielen Monaten Training ist Max deutlich stärker geworden.
After many months of training, Max has become noticeably stronger.
In real life
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