Fire in the belly Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈfaɪɝ/, /ˈfaɪɹ/ /ˈɪn/, /ɪn/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈbɛɫi

FY-yer in thuh BEL-ee

UK

fˈaɪə/ /ˈɪn/ /ðə, ði/ /bˈɛli

FY-uh in thuh BEL-ee

Definition

A strong feeling of determination, passion, or ambition to achieve something important.

Usage & Nuances

Figurative and idiomatic. Used in both formal and informal contexts. Describes strong internal motivation, often for leadership, sports, or challenging goals. Collocates with 'has', 'shows', or 'brings'. Not about literal fire or anger.

• Spanish: pasión - motivación interna - energía
• Portuguese (BR): garra - motivação interna - paixão
• Portuguese (PT): garra - motivação interna - paixão
• Chinese (Simplified): 强烈的激情 - 内在动力
• Chinese (Traditional): 強烈的激情 - 內在動力
• Hindi: जोश - अंदरूनी जुनून
• Arabic: حماس شديد - دافع داخلي
• Bengali: অন্তরের আগুন - অদম্য উৎসাহ
• Russian: огонь в груди - страстное стремление
• Japanese: 闘志 - 強い情熱
• Vietnamese: lòng nhiệt huyết - lửa đam mê
• Korean: 열정 - 투지
• Turkish: içindeki ateş - tutku
• Urdu: جوش و جذبہ - زبردست حوصلہ
• Indonesian: semangat membara - gairah besar

Example Sentences

She has a real fire in the belly for helping others.

basic

You need fire in the belly to win this race.

basic

He brought fire in the belly to the team.

basic

You can tell she has fire in the belly—she never gives up.

natural

After the speech, the crowd left with fire in the belly.

natural

If you’ve got fire in the belly, no obstacle can stop you.

natural