find the courage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "find the courage" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to express the act of summoning or mustering the bravery or confidence to do something. It can also suggest the idea of searching or digging deep within oneself to find the necessary strength to face a difficult situation. Examples: - She needed to find the courage to leave her toxic relationship. - The young boy took a deep breath and found the courage to speak up in front of the entire class. - It's not easy, but I know you have the strength within you to find the courage and conquer your fears. - Despite her fear of heights, she found the courage to climb to the top of the mountain. - He found the courage to stand up for what he believed in, even when it was unpopular.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Maybe I would find the courage.

The New York Times

Perhaps now they will find the courage to speak up.

The Economist

The protesters must find the courage to admit their mistakes.

The Guardian - Opinion

Anna has to find the courage to overcome their bigotry.

The Guardian - Books

Will he or won't he "find the courage"?

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr Maliki must find the courage to explain in public why this is not so.

The Economist

Taking in new members from the east will help them find the courage to do so.

The Economist

I would have to find the courage to ask some hard questions.

The New York Times

Where, I ask him, do people find the courage to fight against dictators?

The New York Times

The White House and Congress must find the courage to proceed.

The New York Times

Russian authorities — above all the president — must find the courage to rethink their political behavior.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "find the courage" when you want to emphasize the act of discovering or accessing an existing, but perhaps hidden, inner strength. For instance, "She had to find the courage to confront her fears."

Common error

Avoid using "find the courage" as an excuse for inadequate preparation. While courage is vital, it shouldn't replace the necessary planning and skill development required for a task. Saying "I'll just find the courage and wing it" can lead to avoidable mistakes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "find the courage" functions primarily as a verbal phrase, often used as part of a larger verb construction. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, implying the act of summoning or mustering bravery. The examples show it's commonly used to express overcoming fear or taking action despite challenges.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

6%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "find the courage" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to describe the act of summoning inner strength to face challenges. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage and prevalence in various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media, the phrase serves to encourage action in the face of fear or adversity. Related phrases such as ""muster the courage"" and ""summon the bravery"" offer similar meanings, while writing guidance emphasizes the importance of not using courage as a substitute for preparation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Muster the courage

Emphasizes gathering or summoning courage, implying a deliberate effort to overcome fear or hesitation.

Summon the bravery

Similar to 'muster', but highlights the internal act of calling upon one's bravery.

Pluck up the courage

Suggests a sudden burst of courage, often after a period of reluctance.

Find the strength

Focuses on inner power rather than bravery, suitable when physical or emotional resilience is needed.

Build up the nerve

Implies a gradual accumulation of courage or confidence.

Gather one's resolve

Shifts the focus to determination and a firm decision to act despite fear.

Steel oneself

Conveys a sense of preparing for something difficult or unpleasant, often with a focus on emotional fortitude.

Dare to

Simplifies the concept to the act of daring, highlighting the willingness to take a risk.

Find one's voice

Specifically relates to speaking up or expressing oneself, especially in the face of opposition.

Take heart

Offers encouragement to be brave or confident, often in a difficult situation.

FAQs

How can I use "find the courage" in a sentence?

You can use "find the courage" to describe someone summoning bravery to face a difficult situation, such as "He had to "find the courage" to speak in public" or "She needed to "find the courage" to leave her toxic relationship".

What are some alternatives to "find the courage"?

Alternatives include "muster the courage", "summon the bravery", or "pluck up the courage", which all convey a similar sense of gathering inner strength.

Is it correct to say "find the courage to do something"?

Yes, "find the courage to do something" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase. It accurately describes the act of summoning the necessary bravery or confidence to undertake a specific action.

What is the difference between ""find the courage"" and "have the courage"?

"Find the courage" implies a process of discovering or accessing courage that may not have been immediately apparent. "Have the courage" suggests possessing courage as an existing quality or attribute.