Translation guide
The quality of being regular, constant, or unwavering. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various words and phrases depending on whether you mean physical stability, emotional calm, consistent effort, or gradual progress.
Describing something that is physically steady, not shaking or wobbling.
General term for stability, often used for physical objects, systems, or conditions.
この机は安定している。
This desk is steady.
Adverb meaning firmly, securely, or steadily. Often used for holding or fixing something in place.
しっかり持ってください。
Please hold it steady.
Describing a person who remains calm and composed, not easily upset.
Noun meaning calmness, composure, or steadiness of mind.
彼はいつも落ち着きがある。
He always has a steady demeanor.
Noun or na-adjective meaning calm, cool-headed, especially in difficult situations.
Describing steady, continuous work or gradual improvement.
Na-adjective meaning steady, sound, or reliable progress. Often used for step-by-step advancement.
着実に進歩している。
We are making steady progress.
Onomatopoeic adverb meaning steadily, diligently, little by little. Implies persistent effort.
Na-adjective meaning steady and honest, often with a nuance of unglamorous but solid work.
Describing a steady look or a hand that does not tremble.
Adverb meaning fixedly, steadily, without moving. Used for staring or holding still.
彼はじっと私を見つめた。
He gazed at me steadily.
Verb meaning not blurred or shaken; often used metaphorically for unwavering focus or principles.
彼の手はぶれなかった。
His hand was steady.
Describing something that happens at a steady pace or remains constant over time.
Noun or no-adjective meaning fixed, constant, uniform. Used for steady speed, temperature, etc.
一定の速度で走る。
Run at a steady speed.
Past tense of 安定する used as an adjective meaning stable or steady. Often for supply, income, or conditions.
安定した収入がある。
I have a steady income.
安定 (antei) refers to stability in a static sense, like a stable table or a stable economy. 着実 (chakujitsu) implies steady progress or reliable steps forward. Use 安定 for things that are not changing, and 着実 for gradual improvement.
この橋は安定している。
This bridge is stable.
着実に計画を進める。
Proceed with the plan steadily.
Avoid directly translating 'steady' as ステディ (sutedi) in most contexts. It is not commonly used in Japanese except in specific loanword phrases like ステディカム (Steadicam). Use the appropriate Japanese word based on the nuance.
ステディと言わないでください。
Please don't say 'steady' (as a loanword).
彼女は冷静さを保った。
She maintained her steadiness.
毎日コツコツ勉強している。
I study steadily every day.
Steady effort paid off.