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.
彼は信念がないから、すぐ意見を変える。
He's spineless, so he changes his opinion right away.
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.
彼は意気地なしだ。
He's spineless.
そんな意気地なしでどうするんだ。
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.
弱虫！
You're spineless!
彼は弱虫だから、文句を言えない。
He's spineless, so he can't complain.
Describes a timid or faint-hearted personality. More about disposition than a single act of cowardice.
彼は気が弱くて、反論できない。
He's too spineless to argue back.
A strong, insulting term for a coward. Literally 'lacking a spine/backbone'. Very direct and harsh.
腰抜けめ！
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.
あんな腑抜けに何ができる。
What can a spineless person like that do?
Means lacking integrity or constancy. Often used for someone who easily switches sides or principles.
節操のない政治家
a spineless politician
Indecisive, wishy-washy. Focuses on inability to make decisions, which can be seen as spinelessness.
彼は優柔不断で、いつも他人に流される。
He's spineless and always gets swayed by others.