courage

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'courage' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are trying to express a quality of mental or moral strength in someone, such as when the person is brave in the face of fear or danger. For example, "He showed great courage when rescuing the injured dog from the burning building."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's a courage award, not a content award".

The Guardian - Books

The driver showed immense courage under very difficult circumstances".

The Guardian

Let Nick Clegg be clear: "The Liberal Democrats will add a heart to a Conservative government, and a brain to a Labour one!" Unfortunately, courage for the cowardly lion will be a casualty of any coalition agreement.

The Guardian

To get up there and do that … to put yourself on the line takes a lot of courage and it's a mental game as much as anything".

The Guardian - Sport

I think that to have Peter on board has given me the courage to be less afraid about standing up on this issue".

The Guardian

For eternity your image will stand for unquestioning courage.

The Guardian

"I also welcome the fact that Queen's has shown the corporate courage to tackle sensitive and controversial and potentially divisive issues".

The Guardian

We ask you to show the Belarusian people that the courage and strength you show in your sport is not blind, and to join them by demonstrating your opposition a regime that violates human rights.

The Guardian

1) Defend what we do against governments and other external interests with vigour and courage.

The Guardian

"Those who know you understand that you are a man of outstanding insight, fierce determination, and above all, courage.

The Guardian - Business

Colin Walker wrote: "We need people like him to have the courage to forget about their own life in the cause of other people's freedom.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about "courage", consider specifying the type of courage (moral, physical, intellectual) to provide greater clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "courage" when you mean alignment or agreement. "Courage" refers to bravery or strength in the face of fear, not simply sharing an opinion or decision. For example, saying "The team showed courage in agreeing to the plan" is incorrect; instead, use "The team agreed to the plan."

Linguistic Context

The word "courage" primarily functions as a noun, denoting the quality of being brave or the ability to confront fear, danger, or adversity. According to Ludwig AI, it is a quality of mental or moral strength. It can also function as a verb, though this is rare.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "courage" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed noun primarily found within News & Media contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the word is correctly used to express the quality of mental or moral strength, particularly bravery when confronting fear or danger. While synonyms like "bravery" and "valor" offer nuance, it's crucial to avoid misusing "courage" as a substitute for simpler concepts like agreement. When employing the term, consider specifying the type of "courage" to ensure clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bravery

A more direct synonym, emphasizing the quality of being brave.

valor

Highlights exceptional courage, especially in battle or dangerous situations.

fortitude

Emphasizes the strength and resilience in enduring pain or adversity.

pluck

Implies spirited and determined courage, often in the face of challenges.

gallantry

Highlights courteous bravery, especially in men.

audacity

Suggests bold or daring courage, sometimes with a hint of recklessness.

nerve

Emphasizes the ability to remain calm and resolute in a difficult situation.

grit

Highlights determination and resolve, especially in overcoming obstacles.

backbone

Emphasizes strength of character and the ability to stand up for one's beliefs.

intestinal fortitude

An idiom that conveys a higher degree of perseverance and strength.

FAQs

How to use "courage" in a sentence?

You can use "courage" to describe someone's ability to face fear, pain, or grief. For example, "She showed immense courage during the difficult surgery" or "It takes courage to stand up for what you believe in."

What can I say instead of "courage"?

You can use alternatives like "bravery", "valor", or "fortitude" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "courage" and "bravery"?

"Courage" and "bravery" are often used interchangeably. However, "courage" can also imply a moral strength, while "bravery" often refers to physical acts of daring.

Is it correct to say "pluck up the courage"?

Yes, "pluck up the courage" is an idiomatic expression meaning to summon the "courage" needed to do something that one finds frightening or difficult.