Japanese meaning of 堅忍不抜
Reading:
けんにんふばつ (kenninn fubatsu)
English Translation:
Unyielding perseverance and determination
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
Unyielding perseverance and determination, continuing to endure difficulties without letting one’s will be shaken; a mindset that combines patience with steadfast resolve.
Cultural Context:
Deeply rooted in samurai ethics and bushidō, this phrase is praised in sportsmanship, military service, and leadership contexts; often appears in eulogies and award citations to honor lifelong dedication.
困難や試練に直面しても心を乱さず、揺るぎない意志で耐え抜くこと。忍耐と不動の決意を併せ持つ姿勢を指す。
武士道や武家倫理に深く根ざし、スポーツマンシップや軍務、リーダーシップの場で称賛される。生涯の献身を讃える弔辞や表彰文にも頻出。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• Noun phrase for perseverance and unwavering will; often with “の精神.”
Trap for English Speakers
May be misunderstood as stubbornness.
Example
Basic Example
彼は堅忍不抜の精神で挑戦を続けた。
He continued his challenge with unyielding perseverance and determination.
Applied Example
マラソン最終盤、彼は堅忍不抜の走りでゴールテープを切った。
In the final stretch of the marathon, he crossed the finish line with unyielding perseverance and determination.