Translation guide
How to express a deliberate display of bravery or resolve in Japanese, from everyday encouragement to dramatic acts.
Describing a specific action or behavior that demonstrates courage, often in a challenging situation.
A natural phrase meaning 'courageous action' or 'act of courage'. Used in both spoken and written contexts.
彼の勇気ある行動に感動した。
I was moved by his show of courage.
Slightly more formal, meaning 'brave deed'. Common in news or literary descriptions.
Telling someone to show courage or be brave, often as a pep talk.
The most common way to say 'be brave' or 'show some courage'. Used when encouraging someone to overcome fear.
勇気を出して、彼女に話しかけた。
I plucked up the courage and talked to her.
A public or symbolic gesture meant to demonstrate courage, often for morale or inspiration.
Means 'symbol of courage'. Used for acts or objects that represent bravery.
その行為は勇気の象徴と見なされた。
The act was seen as a show of courage.
勇気 (ゆうき) is general 'courage', while 度胸 (どきょう) is more about 'nerve' or 'guts' in the face of immediate danger or pressure. Use 度胸 for boldness in risky situations.
Avoid directly translating 'show of courage' as 勇気のショー or 勇気の見せ物, which sound unnatural or like a performance. Use the phrases above depending on context.
The firefighter's show of courage was praised.
Literally 'show guts/nerve'. Used when someone demonstrates boldness or fearlessness, often in a risky situation.
彼は大観衆の前で度胸を見せた。
He showed his courage in front of the huge crowd.
A direct translation of 'show courage', but can sound stiff. More common in formal speeches or writing.
彼は困難に立ち向かい、勇気を示した。
He faced the difficulties and showed courage.
Show some courage! You can do it.
Literally 'settle your guts', meaning to steel oneself or brace for something scary. More about mental preparation.
面接の前に度胸を据えた。
I steeled myself before the interview.
Idiom meaning 'to brace oneself' or 'prepare for the worst'. Implies a resolve to face a difficult situation.
彼は腹を括って上司に反論した。
He screwed up his courage and talked back to his boss.
A noun meaning 'decisive action' or 'daring undertaking'. Often used in news for bold moves.
首相の訪朝は政治的な敢行だった。
The prime minister's visit to North Korea was a political show of courage.