got some nerve

USAGE SUMMARY

"got some nerve" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express disbelief or admiration for someone's audacity. For example, "He had the nerve to ask for a raise after only six months on the job - I've got to admire his courage!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

ANNA: She's got some nerve.

The New Yorker

"She's got some nerve," my father said.

The New Yorker

"He's got some nerve," Murphy said with a laugh.

The New York Times - Sports

It's got some nerve to call that a web.

The New Yorker

"He's got some nerve!" said Margaret Robinson, an 82-year-old who was eating lunch yesterday at the Leonard Covello Senior Center on East 109th Street in Manhattan.

The New York Times

Mr. Winkler said he tried to avoid Mr. Legan, who then confronted him, saying, "You got some nerve disrespecting me like that".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

"I got some nerves going," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Seeing highlights of yourself playing well can be nice, especially before a big game if you've got some nerves".

The Guardian - Sport

I got some nerves out today," Sam said after the game.

Los Angeles Times

If you get within two or three shots of him, he might get some nerves the last three or four holes because it's a tough finish," said Kaymer, 29.

BBC

But analysts say the improvements suggest that investors are starting to get some of their old nerve back, mainly because of sweeping federal efforts to get credit flowing again.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "got some nerve" to express surprise or disapproval at someone's bold or audacious behavior. It often carries a tone of mild annoyance or disbelief.

Common error

While "got some nerve" is widely understood, it's best suited for informal settings. In formal writing, opt for more sophisticated alternatives like "had the audacity" or "took the liberty" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "got some nerve" functions as an idiomatic expression used to express surprise, disapproval, or admiration at someone's audacious or impudent behavior. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "got some nerve" is an idiomatic expression used to express surprise or disapproval at someone's audacity. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. While grammatically sound, it's best suited for informal contexts. Alternatives like "had the audacity" are better suited for formal writing. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media sources, often reporting on spoken dialogue where its informal tone is appropriate. Be mindful of your audience and the desired level of formality when choosing to use the phrase "got some nerve".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

had the audacity

Focuses on the boldness or impudence of the action.

had the cheek

Highlights the impudence or disrespect in the action.

dared to do it

Emphasizes the risk or challenge involved in the action.

had the gall

Stresses the brazenness or effrontery of the action.

took the liberty

Suggests an unwarranted or presumptuous action.

was bold enough

Highlights the courage or fearlessness required for the action.

had the impudence

Focuses on the lack of respect or politeness in the action.

had the effrontery

Emphasizes the shamelessness or audacity of the action.

had the temerity

Highlights the recklessness or foolishness of the action.

took the plunge

Emphasizes the daring or adventurous nature of the action.

FAQs

How can I use "got some nerve" in a sentence?

You can use "got some nerve" to express your surprise or indignation at someone's audacious behavior. For example, "He "had the nerve" to ask for a raise after being late every day this week!"

What does "got some nerve" mean?

"Got some nerve" implies that someone has acted in a way that is bold, audacious, or even disrespectful, often eliciting surprise or disapproval.

What's a more formal way to say "got some nerve"?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "had the audacity", "took the liberty", or "presumed", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "has some nerve" instead of "got some nerve"?

While "got some nerve" is common in informal speech, "has some nerve" is grammatically correct and suitable for more formal contexts. Both convey the same general meaning, but "has some nerve" might be preferred in writing or formal conversation.