Translation guide
The English word "guts" can refer to literal intestines, courage, or the core content/essence of something. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
Expressing the idea of having the courage to do something difficult or frightening.
The most common and natural word for 'guts' in the sense of courage or nerve. Often used in phrases like 度胸がある (to have guts).
He has guts.
It takes guts to say something like that.
Means 'courage' more generally. Slightly less colloquial than 度胸, but very common. 勇気がある = to have courage.
I gathered my guts and talked to her.
A more colorful, slightly old-fashioned or rough way to say 'guts' or 'nerve'. Literally 'liver ball'. Often used in 肝っ玉が据わっている (to be fearless).
That person has real guts.
Referring to the literal internal organs, especially the intestines.
The standard medical/biological term for intestines. Can be used in compounds like 大腸 (large intestine) or 小腸 (small intestine).
My guts aren't working well.
A more visceral, everyday word for guts/entrails. Often used in dramatic or colloquial contexts, like 'guts spilling out'.
General term for internal organs, including guts. More formal than はらわた.
Referring to the most important part or substance of something, like 'the guts of the issue'.
Means 'core' or 'heart' of a matter. Used in phrases like 問題の核心 (the guts of the problem).
Get to the guts of the issue.
Means 'essence' or 'true nature'. Slightly more abstract than 核心.
Literally 'contents', but can be used figuratively for the substance or guts of something, especially in casual speech.
Do not use 腸 (intestines) or はらわた (entrails) to mean courage. These are only for literal guts. For courage, use 度胸 or 勇気.
度胸 is more about nerve or boldness in the face of fear, often used in challenging situations. 勇気 is broader courage, including moral courage. 度胸 sounds more colloquial and 'tough'.
Remove the guts from the fish.
内臓を傷めた。
I injured my guts/internal organs.
議論の本質を見失ってはいけない。
Don't lose sight of the guts of the argument.
その計画の中身は何だ？
What are the guts of that plan?