Translation guide
The concept of an unbreakable determination or resolve. In Japanese, this is expressed through nouns, adjectives, and idiomatic phrases that emphasize mental strength, persistence, and unwavering spirit.
Describing someone's strong, unwavering resolve or mental fortitude.
Direct translation of 'iron will'. Commonly used in formal or literary contexts to describe unyielding determination.
彼は鉄の意志で困難を乗り越えた。
He overcame the difficulties with an iron will.
Literally 'indomitable spirit'. Emphasizes a spirit that cannot be broken, often used in motivational contexts.
彼女の不屈の精神がチームを勝利に導いた。
Her indomitable spirit led the team to victory.
Means 'strong will'. A more common, everyday expression for determination.
強い意志があれば、どんな目標も達成できる。
With a strong will, you can achieve any goal.
Describes a person whose will is firm and unshakable. Often used to describe someone's character.
彼は意志が固いから、一度決めたことは必ずやり遂げる。
He has an iron will, so he always follows through on what he decides.
Emphasizing sustained effort and refusal to give up, often in the face of long-term challenges.
Means 'perseverance' or 'endurance'. Focuses on the ability to withstand hardship over time.
彼の忍耐力には本当に感心する。
I really admire his iron will.
Colloquial term for 'guts' or 'willpower'. Often used in sports or tough situations.
Describing a moment of firm decision or refusal to be swayed.
Means 'firm determination'. Often used in formal declarations or serious decisions.
彼は断固たる決意で辞表を提出した。
He submitted his resignation with iron will.
Idiom meaning 'to harden one's heart' or 'to be ruthless with oneself'. Used when forcing oneself to do something difficult.
心を鬼にして、甘い誘惑を断った。
With an iron will, I resisted the sweet temptation.
Means 'to stick to one's will' or 'to see one's determination through'.
彼は最後まで意志を貫いた。
He stuck to his iron will until the end.
意志 (ishi) refers to a conscious, often rational will or volition, while 根性 (konjō) implies a more instinctive, gutsy fighting spirit. 意志 is used in formal or psychological contexts, whereas 根性 is common in sports and casual speech.
While 鉄の意志 (tetsu no ishi) is a direct translation, it can sound overly dramatic or literary in everyday conversation. For casual settings, use 強い意志 (tsuyoi ishi) or 根性 (konjō).
根性があれば、どんなトレーニングも乗り越えられる。
If you have guts, you can get through any training.
Adjective meaning 'tenacious' or 'persistent'. Describes someone who doesn't give up easily.
彼女は粘り強い交渉で契約を勝ち取った。
With her iron will, she won the contract through persistent negotiation.