Translation guide
How to express taking firm, resolute action in Japanese, from everyday decisions to dramatic resolutions.
Expressing that someone acts decisively, without hesitation, often in a critical situation.
A strong, formal phrase meaning 'firm action' or 'resolute action'. Often used in speeches, news, or formal writing.
政府は断固たる行動を取るべきだ。
The government should take decisive action.
Focusing on the speed and determination of the decision-making process.
A four-character compound meaning 'decide on the spot and act immediately'. Common in business and everyday speech.
彼は即断即決で問題を解決した。
He solved the problem with decisive action.
When the action is not just firm but also extreme or unconventional.
Means 'drastic measure' or 'bold step'. Often used when someone does something surprising or risky.
会社は思い切った手段を取った。
The company took decisive action.
断固たる (dankotaru) emphasizes firmness and unyielding resolve, often in serious or official contexts. 思い切った (omoikitta) implies boldness and a willingness to take risks, suitable for personal or entrepreneurial actions.
断固たる態度で交渉に臨んだ。
He approached the negotiation with a firm attitude.
思い切った投資を行った。
They made a bold investment.
決断 means 'decision', but when combined with verbs like 下す (kudasu) or する, it can imply decisive action. For example, 決断を下す (to make a decision) often carries the nuance of a firm, final choice.
Literally 'bold action', implying a courageous or daring move. Suitable for personal decisions or business contexts.
彼は思い切った行動に出た。
He took decisive action.
Emphasizes the ability to make decisions. More about the quality of being decisive than the action itself.
リーダーには決断力のある行動が求められる。
Leaders are expected to take decisive action.
Literally 'quick decision'. Often used with 行動 (action) to emphasize both speed and action.
素早い決断と行動が成功の鍵だ。
Quick decisions and decisive action are the keys to success.
A noun/suru-verb meaning 'decisive execution' or 'carrying out resolutely'. Often used in formal contexts.
改革を断行する必要がある。
We need to take decisive action on reform.
He finally made a decisive decision.
He finally made a decisive decision.