1.
manliness, chivalry, gallantry
A spirit of courage, honor, and generosity traditionally associated with masculine ideals. Implies willingness to stand up for what is right, help the weak, and act boldly even at personal cost.
彼は男気のある人だ。
He's a man of chivalry.
男気を見せて、後輩の分まで払った。
He showed gallantry and paid for his juniors too.
困っている人を見て見ぬふりができないのが彼の男気で、いつも損な役回りを引き受けてしまう。
His chivalrous nature makes it impossible for him to look the other way when someone is in trouble, and he always ends up taking on thankless roles.
USAGE:
Expresses a traditional ideal of masculine virtue centered on courage, generosity, and standing up for others. Often used approvingly when someone acts with boldness or selfless generosity. Common in casual conversation, manga, and sports contexts.
Despite the 男 (man) in the word, it can be used to praise anyone who demonstrates these qualities, though it retains a strongly masculine nuance.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 男気がある: to have chivalry/gallantry
- 男気を見せる: to show one's mettle
- 男気溢れる: brimming with gallantry
- 男気じゃんけん: a janken game where the loser pays (humorous)