1.
tough person; fearless individual; formidable expert
A person who is exceptionally skilled, experienced, or daring in a particular area. Can describe someone physically tough or someone with extraordinary ability or nerve. Often used with a tone of respect or admiration.
あの人は業界の猛者だ。
That person is a veteran of the industry.
毎朝冷水で体を洗う猛者もいる。
There are even tough individuals who wash their bodies with cold water every morning.
大会には全国から腕に覚えのある猛者たちが集まった。
Formidable competitors confident in their skills gathered from across the country for the tournament.
USAGE:
Also read as もうじゃ, though もさ is more common in modern usage. Carries a tone of admiration or awe for someone's toughness, skill, or daring. Often used in online and casual contexts to describe someone who does something extreme or impressive.
NUANCE:
In modern casual and internet language, 猛者 often describes people who do something extreme, unconventional, or impressively dedicated. Not necessarily about physical strength — can refer to expertise, endurance, or sheer audacity.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 歴戦の猛者: battle-hardened veteran
- 業界の猛者: industry veteran
- 猛者が集まる: formidable people gather