Translation guide
Describes reckless boldness that ignores danger or consequences. In Japanese, this is often expressed through adjectives, verbs, or set phrases that emphasize thoughtlessness, rashness, or suicidal risk.
Describing a person or action that is imprudently brave, ignoring obvious risks.
The most direct and common adjective/noun for 'foolhardy' or 'reckless'. Can describe plans, actions, or people.
彼の無謀な運転は事故を引き起こした。
His foolhardy driving caused an accident.
無謀な挑戦だった。
It was a foolhardy challenge.
Literally 'not seeing the other side', meaning rash or foolhardy. Often used for a person's character.
向こう見ずな若者たちが崖から飛び込んだ。
The foolhardy youths jumped off the cliff.
Literally 'not knowing life', meaning foolhardy or daredevil. Emphasizes disregard for one's own life.
命知らずの冒険家が嵐の中を出航した。
The foolhardy adventurer set sail in the storm.
Reckless, foolhardy, often used for impulsive actions without thinking. Slightly old-fashioned.
無鉄砲な計画は失敗に終わった。
The foolhardy plan ended in failure.
Emphasizing that the action is so risky it could lead to death or ruin.
Literally 'suicidal act'. Used to describe foolhardy actions that are almost certain to end badly.
そんな嵐の中で出航するのは自殺行為だ。
Setting sail in such a storm is foolhardy.
Colloquial phrase meaning 'it's like going to your death'. Strongly emphasizes the foolhardy nature.
準備なしで冬山に登るなんて死にに行くようなものだ。
Climbing a winter mountain without preparation is foolhardy.
Focusing on lack of forethought rather than physical danger.
Rash, thoughtless, imprudent. Often used for decisions or remarks made without considering consequences.
軽率な発言で彼は信用を失った。
His foolhardy remark cost him his credibility.
Verb meaning 'to act rashly' or 'to jump the gun'. Often used in warnings.
無謀 is the most general and neutral term for 'foolhardy'. 向こう見ず implies a personality trait of not considering consequences, often used for young or hot-headed people. 命知らず specifically highlights disregard for one's own life, and can sometimes carry a nuance of admiration for daredevils.
English 'foolhardy' combines 'fool' and 'hardy', but Japanese does not have a direct compound equivalent. Using 愚か (foolish) + 大胆 (bold) would sound unnatural. Stick to the adjectives and phrases above.
早まって辞表を出すな。
Don't be foolhardy and hand in your resignation.