gather the nerve

USAGE SUMMARY

"gather the nerve" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone finding the courage and confidence to do something difficult or daunting. For example: "He had to gather the nerve to ask his boss for a raise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Someone should gather the nerve to book them for a week.

The New York Times - Arts

Yet since Justin Fashanu made the decision that brought so much anger and invective, and estranged his own brother, not one professional footballer in this country has felt able to gather the nerve to come out into the open, a possibility that seemed to be heightened by the resolve of the Welsh rugby union captain Gareth Thomas to reveal that he was gay.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

But as it happened, "she was excited about the idea and suggested it to Michael Mayer before he gathered the nerve to suggest it to her".

The New York Times

Everyone looked around stunned, until someone finally gathered the nerve to ask, "What do you mean?" "Your pulpit is not accessible to persons in wheelchairs," Hancock poignantly replied.

Huffington Post

"Finally, I gathered up the nerve to ask her out to lunch," Mr. Lichtenberg said.

The New York Times

A readiness to restore, to make amends, to gather up the nerve-endings of history to help a community resume normal life, these are surely the best future for a devastated past.

The Guardian - Opinion

Gather the possibilities.

Los Angeles Times

Gather the tools required.

WikiHow

Gather the ingredients above.

WikiHow

Gather the necessary tools.

WikiHow

Gather the mats.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gather the nerve" when you want to emphasize a deliberate act of summoning courage to overcome fear or hesitation.

Common error

Avoid using "gather the nerve" too frequently in your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "muster the courage" or "pluck up the courage" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gather the nerve" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the action of acquiring courage or confidence. It is commonly used to describe someone preparing to face a challenging or daunting situation. Ludwig AI identifies the phrase as correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gather the nerve" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the act of summoning courage. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for general use, though synonyms might enrich writing. Predominantly found in News & Media, the phrase maintains a neutral tone suitable for varied contexts. Consider alternatives like "muster the courage" to avoid repetition, and remember to use it when emphasizing overcoming fear. While not overly frequent, mastering "gather the nerve" enhances expressive writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

muster the courage

This alternative replaces "nerve" with "courage", offering a direct synonym with similar connotations.

pluck up the courage

This is a more idiomatic alternative that suggests a determined effort to find courage.

summon the courage

This phrase emphasizes the act of actively calling upon one's courage.

steel oneself

This alternative focuses on mentally preparing for a difficult situation, implying the need for courage.

brace oneself

Similar to "steel oneself", this suggests preparing for something unpleasant or challenging.

find the strength

This alternative emphasizes the inner fortitude required to face a daunting task.

screw up your courage

This is a more informal, almost humorous way of saying "gather the nerve".

get up the courage

A simpler way of expressing the action of finding courage.

take heart

This phrase encourages someone to find courage and be optimistic.

face the music

This idiom implies gathering the courage to confront the consequences of one's actions.

FAQs

How can I use "gather the nerve" in a sentence?

You can use "gather the nerve" to describe someone finding the courage to do something difficult or daunting, such as "He had to gather the nerve to ask his boss for a raise."

What are some alternatives to "gather the nerve"?

Alternatives include "muster the courage", "pluck up the courage", or "summon the courage". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired tone.

Is "gather the nerve" formal or informal?

"Gather the nerve" is generally considered a neutral expression, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives like "muster the courage" may be preferred in certain situations.

What does it mean to "gather the nerve"?

To "gather the nerve" means to find the courage or confidence needed to do something that you are afraid or hesitant to do. It implies an internal struggle and a conscious effort to overcome fear.