WordGarden.iogutsy
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /ɡˈʌtsi/
US
- /ˈɡətˈsi/
Meanings
Adjective
brave, bold, and willing to take risks
Beyond the definition
To be gutsy means to show courage when something feels hard, risky, or scary. It is about finding the nerve to act, even when fear is still there. Think of someone speaking up in a tense room, trying something big with no guarantee it will work, or standing firm when others back away. A gutsy move might be leaving a safe job to follow a dream, or calling out something unfair when staying quiet would be easier. The word is often used for people, choices, and actions that show real bravery and determination.
"Gutsy" describes someone or something that shows courage and determination, especially when there is danger, pressure, difficulty, or opposition. It is more than simple bravery; it suggests bold action and a readiness to take a real risk. The word comes from "guts," which has long been used in English to mean nerve, inner strength, and the courage to keep going when things get tough.
A gutsy decision is not always reckless. In many cases, it is thoughtful and deliberate, but it still takes nerve. A surgeon making a difficult call during a complicated procedure may be described as gutsy because the pressure is intense and the stakes are high. An athlete who takes a bold last-second chance, a journalist who publishes an uncomfortable truth, or a whistleblower who exposes wrongdoing may also be called gutsy.
The word can also praise resilience. An activist who keeps pushing forward through setback after setback may be admired for a gutsy spirit. In some contexts, it can even describe things that feel strong, bold, or full-bodied, such as a gutsy red wine. When you call someone gutsy, you are recognizing a person who faces fear, pressure, or resistance with boldness and resolve.
Examples
- 1
Career risk
It was a gutsy decision to leave a secure job and start her own company.
- 2
Sports risk
He took a gutsy shot instead of passing the ball.
- Phraseplay it safe
choose the less risky option
- 3
Public question
I thought it was gutsy of Maya to ask that question in front of the whole team.
- Patterngutsy of + person + to do something
bold for that person
- 4
Creative choices
The director made some gutsy changes to the script, and they really worked.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Unsupported claim
That's a pretty gutsy claim when you haven't seen the data yet.
See also
Forms and spellings
3 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- gutsyadjective
Forms
- gutsiestsuperlativeadjective
- gutsiercomparativeadjective