- kigai strong spirit, mettle, backbone, guts, fighting spirit
Used in formal speech or writing to praise someone's resolute, unyielding spirit, especially in adversity.
彼は失敗しても気概を失わなかった。
Kare wa shippai shite mo kigai o ushinawanakatta.
Even after failing, he did not lose his fighting spirit.
若者よ、もっと気概を持て。
Wakamono yo, motto kigai o mote.
Young people, have more backbone.
⚖️ Often confused with 気合 (kiai), which refers to a momentary burst of energy or fighting spirit, while 気概 implies a lasting, principled resolve.
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Found in a wide range of contexts. Useful for building reading and listening fluency.
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