adj
C1
Advanced
gutsy
GUHT-see
Gutsy (adj) means showing courage and determination in a difficult or risky situation. Example: “It was a gutsy call to bench the star player before the final.”
adj
1
Showing courage and determination in a difficult or risky situation.
"It was a gutsy call to bench the star player before the final."
"The rookie gave a gutsy performance under pressure."
How to use gutsy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishBold and brave, willing to take a risk.
Common pairings
a gutsy decision
a gutsy performance
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Word forms
- Comparative
- gutsier
- Superlative
- gutsiest
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
It was a _____ call to bench the star player before the final.
Etymology
From guts + the adjective suffix -y.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “gutsy” mean?
The word “gutsy” means showing courage and determination in a difficult or risky situation. In plain terms, bold and brave, willing to take a risk.
How do you pronounce “gutsy”?
“Gutsy” is pronounced GUHT-see (/ˈɡʌt.si/ in IPA).
How do you use “gutsy” in a sentence?
Here is “gutsy” used in a sentence: “It was a gutsy call to bench the star player before the final.”
What part of speech is “gutsy”?
“Gutsy” is an adjective.
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