Sisu
noun /ˈsiːsuː/ — The extraordinary determination to persist when all logic says stop.
Definition
A Finnish concept of extraordinary resilience, determination, and grit; the courage and willpower to continue in the face of challenges that exceed rational capacity.
Beyond the definition
The Finns consider sisu a defining national characteristic — forged partly by their history of survival against larger powers, harsh winters, and scarce resources. It's not just perseverance; it's the ability to act despite knowing the odds are against you.
Origin & history
From Finnish sisukas — gritty, determined. Related to sisu, an old Finnish word for the interior of the body — literally, the guts. Sisu is gut-level determination.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
She finished the race on a stress fracture. That's sisu.
Sisu is not recklessness — it's choosing the hard thing with your eyes open.
The Finnish education system is built around sisu as much as intelligence.
How to use it
This entry uses a noun. Follow the examples for articles and singular or plural forms; not every noun takes “a” or “an.”
Choose “Sisu” when the meaning fits your context: A Finnish concept of extraordinary resilience, determination, and grit; the courage and willpower to continue in the face of challenges that exceed rational capacity.
Synonyms
grit, resilience, fortitude, determination, perseverance
Antonyms
giving up, fragility, retreat
Related words
Sisu vs grit
Sisu is a Finnish concept of stoic, almost mystical determination in the face of impossible odds. Grit is the psychological trait of persevering toward long-term goals despite setbacks.
Word in the Wild
Illustrative story: an imagined scene, not a documented event or interview.
The Finnish national skiing team was once asked what sisu meant. The coach paused for a long time and said: "It's not a word for what you do when things are hard. It's a word for what you do when things are impossible — and you do them anyway."
Sisu is not optimism. It does not require you to believe you will win. It requires only that you continue.
The Finns consider it their defining national quality. This says something important about Finnish winters.
Questions about this word
What does "Sisu" mean?
Sisu is noun meaning: The extraordinary determination to persist when all logic says stop.. A Finnish concept of extraordinary resilience, determination, and grit; the courage and willpower to continue in the face of challenges that exceed rational capacity.
Which words express “refusing to give up”?
Sisu — The extraordinary determination to persist when all logic says stop.
Where does the word "Sisu" come from?
From Finnish sisukas — gritty, determined. Related to sisu, an old Finnish word for the interior of the body — literally, the guts. Sisu is gut-level determination.