Pronunciation: [nˈə͡ʊ ɡˈʌts] (IPA) 
The phrase "no guts" is commonly spelled as it sounds, using the letters "n-o" and "g-u-t-s". In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be written as /noʊ ɡʌts/. The "oʊ" sound represents the diphthong of "o" and "u", while the "ʌ" sound is the short vowel "u". The word "guts" refers to one's courage or intestinal fortitude, while the addition of "no" signifies the absence of these qualities.
"No guts" is an idiomatic expression used to describe someone who lacks courage, bravery, or determination to undertake a challenging or risky task. It refers to a person's inability or unwillingness to confront difficult situations or make tough decisions.
The term "no guts" is derived from the literal meaning of "guts," which refers to the internal organs, particularly the intestines, that are associated with courage and bravery. Thus, having "guts" implies having the inner strength and fortitude to face one's fears or take bold actions.
When someone is said to have "no guts," they are seen as lacking the necessary qualities to face challenges head-on and are often seen as timid or spineless. This can manifest in various situations, such as avoiding confrontations, shying away from taking risks, or being indecisive when faced with difficult choices. It denotes a person's fear of failure or rejection, which hinders their ability to pursue opportunities or overcome obstacles.
Overall, the idiom "no guts" refers to a person's deficiency in courage or determination, highlighting their inability or reluctance to step out of their comfort zone and confront difficult situations.
The phrase "no guts" is a colloquial expression used to describe someone who lacks courage or determination. It originates from the English language and is believed to have evolved from earlier idiomatic phrases and expressions.
The word "guts" has its origin in the Old English word "guttas" or "gutan", which referred to the intestines or belly. The word gradually expanded its meaning to encompass courage, boldness, or inner strength. This metaphorical usage likely emerged due to the association of bravery with the "gut instinct", which is closely linked to the physiological feeling of courage arising from the core of the body.
The expression "no guts, no glory" is an older variant that came into popular usage in the early 20th century and is often attributed to World War I fighter pilots. It referred to the willingness to take risks and show courage in order to achieve significant accomplishments or victories.
