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肝が太い (きもがふとい) Japanese meaning | Kotomora
Meanings 1
expression, i-adjective
bold ; daring ; unflappable
Describes a person with a strong, fearless, or unshakable disposition. Often used to praise someone who remains calm under pressure or takes risks without hesitation.
新しん
人じん
は
肝きも
が
太ふと
く
て
、
初はじ
めて
の
プレゼン
で
も
堂どう
々どう
と
し
て
い
た
。
That new employee is daring and gave a confident presentation even though it was their first time.
Kanji 太 plump, thick, big around Similar words 度ど 胸きょう がある Also means 'bold' or 'courageous', but focuses more on courage in the face of danger or risk, while 肝が太い emphasizes an unshakable, thick-skinned temperament.
肝きも が 据す わる Similar meaning of being fearless and composed, but 肝が据わる often implies a settled, steady nerve, whereas 肝が太い suggests a naturally bold and daring personality.
Etymology The expression literally means 'the liver is thick'. In traditional Japanese thought, the liver (肝) was considered the seat of courage and spirit, so a 'thick liver' metaphorically indicates a bold, fearless character.
