Translation guide
The English word "resolute" describes a firm, unwavering determination. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through adjectives describing a person's character, verbs indicating firm decisions, and idiomatic phrases conveying an unshakable spirit. The best choice depends on whether you are describing a person's nature, a decision, or an attitude.
To say someone is resolute by nature—firm, determined, and not easily swayed.
Means 'firm' or 'resolute' and is used to describe a person's attitude or stance. Often used in formal or written contexts.
彼は断固とした態度で交渉に臨んだ。
He approached the negotiations with a resolute attitude.
Conveys a dignified, unyielding firmness. Often used to describe someone who remains composed and resolute under pressure.
彼女は毅然とした態度で批判に答えた。
She responded to the criticism with a resolute demeanor.
Literally 'indomitable' or 'unyielding'. Used to describe a spirit or will that never gives up, often in the face of adversity.
彼の不屈の精神が勝利をもたらした。
His resolute spirit brought victory.
To express that someone has made a resolute decision or is determined to do something.
A common phrase meaning 'to firmly resolve' or 'to make a resolute decision'. It emphasizes the strength of one's determination.
彼は留学することを固く決心した。
He was resolute in his decision to study abroad.
A Buddhist term meaning 'never turning back', used to describe an unshakable resolve. Very strong and somewhat literary.
彼は不退転の決意で事業を始めた。
He started the business with resolute determination.
To describe a facial expression or demeanor that shows firm determination.
Describes a look that clearly shows one's resolve. '決然' means 'decisive' or 'resolute'.
彼は決然とした表情でうなずいた。
He nodded with a resolute expression.
Used for a tone of voice that is clear-cut and resolute, leaving no room for doubt.
彼女はきっぱりとした口調で断った。
She refused in a resolute tone.
To emphasize an inner strength that remains firm despite challenges.
Literally 'strong will'. A straightforward and common way to express resoluteness of character.
彼女は強い意志を持って目標を達成した。
She achieved her goal with a resolute will.
Means 'unshakable conviction'. It conveys a deep, resolute belief that does not waver.
彼は揺るがない信念を持って行動した。
He acted with resolute conviction.
While all three can translate 'resolute', they have different nuances. 断固 (danko) emphasizes firmness in attitude or action, often in formal contexts. 毅然 (kizen) adds a sense of dignified composure. 不屈 (fukutsu) focuses on an indomitable spirit that never gives up, often used in motivational or literary contexts.
There is no single Japanese adjective that perfectly matches 'resolute' in all contexts. Using 断固とした or 毅然とした as a pre-noun modifier is common, but in predicate position, you often need to rephrase with a verb phrase like 固く決心している (is firmly resolved).