根性（こんじょう、konjou）
- guts

根性根性, often translated as "guts," "spirit," "willpower," or "determination," represents a strong inner resolve and the ability to endure hardship and persevere through challenges. It signifies a resilient and tenacious character. It's more than just a fleeting emotion; it's a deep-seated commitment to see things through, even when faced with difficult circumstances. It implies a willingness to push oneself beyond perceived limits. The word carries a positive connotation, highlighting traits valued in Japanese culture like perseverance, hard work, and a never-give-up attitude. It emphasizes the importance of mental fortitude and the ability to withstand pressure.

⚫︎彼は、どんな困難にも負けない根性を持っている。 Translation: He has the guts to overcome any difficulty. ⚫︎マラソンを完走するには、根性が必要だ。 Translation: You need guts to complete a marathon. ⚫︎今回のプロジェクトを成功させるには、根性根性を出すしかない！ Translation: We have no choice but to show determination to make this project a success!

This word is frequently used in situations where someone is facing a challenging task, overcoming obstacles, or showing remarkable dedication. It's often used to praise someone's efforts, encourage them, or describe their unwavering commitment. You can use it to describe someone who works hard to achieve a goal, even when the going gets tough. It can also be used to criticize someone for giving up too easily by implying they lack the necessary 根性根性. The context will often determine whether it's more appropriate to use "guts," "spirit," or "determination" in your translation.

The word is written in kanji as 根性根性. The reading is こんじょう. It’s typically written with the kanji. It is not common to write it in hiragana or katakana. The okurigana (the suffix hiragana) is standard and there are no variations.

⚫︎ 精神力 (せいしんりょく): mental strength, mental power ⚫︎ 忍耐力 (にんたいりょく): perseverance, endurance ⚫︎ 気合 (きあい): spirit, drive, fighting spirit ⚫︎ 努力 (どりょく): effort, hard work ⚫︎ 頑張り (がんばり): perseverance, doing one's best

⚫︎ 諦め (あきらめ): resignation, giving up ⚫︎ 無気力 (むきりょく): apathy, lack of energy ⚫︎ 怠惰 (たいだ): laziness, idleness

彼は根性根性があるから、きっと試験に合格するだろう。 ・Translation: Because he has guts, he'll surely pass the exam. ・Explanation: This sentence uses 根性根性 to praise someone's determined character and suggests that it will lead to success.

失敗しても、根性さえあれば、また立ち上がれる。 ・Translation: Even if you fail, if you have the guts, you can get back up again. ・Explanation: This sentence highlights the importance of 根性根性 in overcoming setbacks and persevering.

The word 根性根性 is formed from the kanji 根 (こん) which means "root" or "foundation," and 性 (しょう) which means "nature," "character," or "disposition". The combined meaning suggests a fundamental and deep-seated inner strength, a "root" of one's character. The concept of 根性根性 is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, reflecting a value placed on perseverance and resilience.