have the guts / nerve / spine

/hav ðə ɡˈʌts nˈɜːv spˈaɪn/

/hæv ðə ɡˈʌts nˈɜːv spˈaɪn/

[phrase]

to have the guts / nerve / spine

[PHRASE]

to have the necessary conviction or be brave enough to get something done

synonyms : backbone

to [have] the (guts|nerve|spine) definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "have the guts" and when to use it?

The idiom "have the guts" originates from the idea that the "guts" (referring to the intestines or stomach) are associated with inner strength and determination. The phrase is often used in informal conversations, storytelling, or informal writing to emphasize the requirement for inner strength and determination in order to confront difficult or unconventional situations head-on.

Examples

1. Those young people have some guts.

2. He doesn't have the nerve to tell you in person.

3. After what happened the other day you have some nerve even speaking to me!

4. You're always talking about quitting your job, but I don't think you have the guts.

Nearby words

have the edge over

have the aces

have sticky fingers

have something going with

have seen better days

have the heart

have the stomach for

have the wind at back

have the world at feet

have to