1In anatomy, a bundle of fibers connecting the body to the brain, transmitting signals such as pain and sensation; a nerve.
腰の神経を痛めて、足にしびれが出た。
I injured a nerve in my lower back and my leg went numb.
その手術は重要な神経の近くで行われるため、慎重に進められた。
Because the surgery was performed near an important nerve, it proceeded carefully.
歯の神経を抜く治療を受けた。
I had a treatment to remove the nerve of my tooth.
2Psychological sensitivity or nerves — how easily one is affected, worried, or on edge (e.g. 'to be thin-skinned', 'to use tact').
あの人は神経が細いから、少しのことでもすぐ気にする。
That person is thin-skinned, so they worry even over small things.
大事な発表の前で神経が高ぶっている。
My nerves are on edge before the big presentation.
彼は図太い神経を持っているので、少々のことでは動じない。
He has thick nerves, so he isn't rattled by minor things.
新しい上司への対応には神経を使う。
Dealing with the new boss requires a lot of tact.