Translation guide
Describes a person who lacks courage, determination, or moral strength. The most common Japanese equivalents focus on weakness of will or character.
Describing a person who is weak-willed, cowardly, or easily intimidated.
A common, slightly colloquial noun for a cowardly or spineless person. Often used in a critical or teasing way.
Describing someone who compromises easily, has no backbone, or lacks firm principles.
Literally 'has no convictions'. Used when someone lacks principles or easily changes their stance.
意気地なし is the most common and neutral term for a spineless person. 弱虫 emphasizes cowardice and is often used for children or in light teasing. 腰抜け is a strong insult and should be used carefully.
Do not translate 'spineless' literally as 背骨がない. While it can be understood metaphorically, it is not a natural way to call someone spineless in Japanese. Use the provided expressions instead.
He's spineless.
What are you going to do, being so spineless?
Literally 'weak bug', a common word for a coward or weakling. Often used for someone who lacks physical or mental toughness.
You're spineless!
He's spineless, so he can't complain.
Describes a timid or faint-hearted personality. More about disposition than a single act of cowardice.
He's too spineless to argue back.
A strong, insulting term for a coward. Literally 'lacking a spine/backbone'. Very direct and harsh.
You spineless coward!
A harsh term for a spineless, weak-willed person. Implies a lack of spirit or energy. Stronger than 意気地なし.
What can a spineless person like that do?
He's spineless, so he changes his opinion right away.
Means lacking integrity or constancy. Often used for someone who easily switches sides or principles.
a spineless politician
Indecisive, wishy-washy. Focuses on inability to make decisions, which can be seen as spinelessness.
He's spineless and always gets swayed by others.