do derring-do

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "do derring-do" is not correct in standard English usage.
The correct expression is "to do derring-do," which refers to engaging in daring or adventurous acts. Example: "The knight was known to do derring-do, rescuing villagers from dragons and performing heroic feats."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

They do derring-do.

The Guardian - Opinion

The life we lead, though some women break free and do derring-do things, dooms us to second best in drama as in life.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

No one does derring-do like the ancients.

The Guardian - Books

And it could be that the recent bout of storms has left us less receptive to those optional feats of wintry derring-do being done by the athletes.

The New Yorker

It's hard not to be drawn to the activities of the Special Operations Executive – as a small library of books testifies – and all the attendant accounts of cool-headed derring-do and making do.

The Guardian - Books

Mr. Lloyd, who directed a dazzling "Duchess of Malfi" at the Old Vic last summer, doesn't stint on the derring-do factor and heightens the play's appeal to the inner Robin Hoods of bookish boys.

The New York Times

It's a tempting thought that Descartes was no more the father of modern philosophy than James Bond was a salesman for Universal Exports — that all his geometry and metaphysics was merely a cover for some clandestine derring-do — but Grayling doesn't go quite so far.

The New Yorker

It doesn't involve bravura skill or derring-do.

The New York Times - Arts

But boy, do we miss him today — the derring-do, the controversy".

The New York Times - Arts

Nazi propaganda made much of his alleged derring-do and, after all, he did get two Iron Crosses, so maybe there was some truth in the stories.

The Guardian - Books

Would you ask me to do something more frightening?" Dench's derring-do also seems necessary to keep her nearly perpetual routine of rehearsal and performance a fresh and vigorous challenge.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing actions, consider using alternative phrases like "perform daring feats" or "engage in brave exploits", which are more grammatically conventional and widely accepted.

Common error

Avoid using "do derring-do" without the preceding "to". The phrase is grammatically incorrect and can sound awkward. Always use the full infinitive form "to do derring-do" or choose a more standard alternative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "do derring-do" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe engaging in adventurous or daring activities. However, it's important to note that it is grammatically incorrect. Ludwig AI points out that the standard expression is "to do derring-do". Examples found by Ludwig show it used in descriptions of heroic actions and daring feats.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "do derring-do" appears in some contexts to describe engaging in daring or adventurous acts, it's crucial to recognize that it is grammatically incorrect. Ludwig AI highlights the correct form as "to do derring-do". Given its relative infrequency and the availability of more standard alternatives, such as "perform daring feats" or "engage in brave exploits", it's advisable to use the full infinitive form or opt for these alternatives in most writing situations to ensure clarity and grammatical correctness. The sources where the phrase appears are reputable, but the low frequency suggests careful consideration is needed before using "do derring-do".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perform daring feats

Replaces "derring-do" with a more common synonym for adventurous actions. This is more grammatically conventional.

engage in brave exploits

Similar to 'perform daring feats', this uses 'exploits' to emphasize the adventurous nature. This is more grammatically conventional.

undertake heroic deeds

Focuses on the heroic aspect of the actions, suggesting acts of courage and selflessness. This is more grammatically conventional.

carry out bold ventures

Highlights the risk and ambition involved in the actions. This is more grammatically conventional.

execute audacious maneuvers

Emphasizes skill and daring in carrying out complex actions. This is more grammatically conventional.

display courageous acts

A more straightforward way of describing brave behavior. This is more grammatically conventional.

take part in swashbuckling adventures

Adds a sense of excitement and daring, typical of pirate or adventure stories. This is more grammatically conventional.

embark on perilous journeys

Focuses on the dangerous and challenging nature of the undertaking. This is more grammatically conventional.

brave dangerous situations

Simply states that someone faces dangerous circumstances with courage. This is more grammatically conventional.

tackle challenging endeavors

Highlights the difficulty and effort involved in the actions. This is more grammatically conventional.

FAQs

How can I use the phrase "do derring-do" correctly in a sentence?

The grammatically correct way to use this phrase is with the infinitive "to do derring-do". For example, "The knight was known to do derring-do, rescuing villagers from dragons." You can also use alternatives like "perform daring feats" or "engage in brave exploits".

What does "derring-do" actually mean?

"Derring-do" refers to daring or adventurous actions, often associated with bravery and heroism. The word by itself means bold or reckless deeds.

What are some phrases similar to "do derring-do"?

Alternatives include "perform daring feats", "engage in brave exploits", or "undertake heroic deeds", which are more standard in contemporary English.

Is "do derring-do" formal or informal?

While "derring-do" itself can appear in various contexts, the phrase "do derring-do" is less common and can sound somewhat archaic or theatrical. More formal or standard alternatives might be preferred in academic or professional writing.