Japanese Conversation · Level 124
60 words
Japanese word
根性
Pronunciation
Romajikonjō
Meaning
- nounguts
Example
あの人は根性があります。a no hito wa kon jō ga a ri ma su
That person has guts.
More examples
失敗しても、根性を出してもう一度挑戦します。ship pai shi te mo kon jō o da shi te mō ichi do chō sen shi ma su
Even when I fail, I will show some guts and try again.
Core concept
Refers to a person's deep resolve and toughness when continuing through hardship.
Common phrases
根性があるkon jō ga a ru
have guts
根性を出すkon jō o da su
show some guts
根性を見せるkon jō o mi se ru
show determination
Similar words
気概kigai: A strong spirit that drives a person to face difficulties and pursue a goal.
意地iji: The determination to persist because of pride or a desire not to give up.
根気konki: The steady patience and energy needed to continue a task for a long time.
Definition in Japanese
苦しい状況でもくじけず、最後までやり通す気力や意志。kuru shi i jō kyō de mo ku ji ke zu sai go ma de ya ri tō su ki ryoku ya i shi
Word origin
根性 (konjō) is a Sino-Japanese compound of 根 (kon, "root") and 性 (jō, "nature"), expressing a deeply rooted quality of persistence.
Usage tips
- English speakers may connect guts with physical courage, while 根性 (konjō) commonly emphasizes the sustained resolve needed to keep working toward a goal.
Other meanings
- determinationnoun
- gritnoun
Opposites
- 臆病okubyōcowardicena-adjective
Related words
- ど根性dokonjōextraordinary gutsnoun
- 根性論konjōrontheory of willpowernoun