Gutsy means having courage and determination, especially when facing something difficult or risky. A gutsy decision is one that takes real nerve to make, even when you're not sure how things will turn out.

When a soccer player makes a gutsy move by attempting a difficult shot instead of passing to a teammate, she's showing courage and confidence. When a student gives a gutsy performance in the school play after weeks of stage fright, he's pushing through his fear to do something challenging. A gutsy explorer ventures into unknown territory despite the dangers.

It suggests boldness mixed with determination. Someone making a gutsy choice isn't being reckless or foolish: they've thought things through and decided to take a calculated risk anyway.

You might describe a gutsy comeback when a team fights back from being way behind, or a gutsy stand when someone defends an unpopular position they believe is right. The word carries admiration: calling someone gutsy is a compliment that recognizes both their bravery and their willingness to take action when others might hold back.