大胆

• Reading: だいたん
• Romaji: daitan
• Kanji breakdown: 大 (dai) — large, great; 胆 (tan) — gallbladder, courage, nerve
• Pronunciation: /da.i.taɴ/

Meaning

Bold; daring; audacious. Describes someone or something fearlessly courageous or strikingly unconventional.

A na-adjective and noun describing fearless, courageous action or striking unconventionality. Can be used positively (a bold plan, a daring artist) or with a hint of recklessness (an audacious gamble). Commonly appears as 大胆な (bold ~), 大胆に (boldly), or 大胆さ (boldness). The opposite is 臆病 (timid/cowardly).

Examples

1. 彼女は大胆な決断で会社を立て直した。 She turned the company around with a bold decision.
2. あの画家は大胆な色使いで知られている。 That painter is known for his daring use of color.
3. 大胆に行動しないとチャンスを逃すよ。 If you don't act boldly, you'll miss your chance.

Usage Guide

Context: business, art, personality, decision-making

Tone: admiring

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 大 (dai, large/great) + 胆 (tan, gallbladder/courage). In East Asian tradition, the gallbladder was considered the seat of courage, so 'large gallbladder' metaphorically means great bravery.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal