gumption

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "gumption" is correct and usable in written English.
It describes an individual's initiative and resourcefulness and is generally used in an encouraging manner. Example sentence: "I was surprised to see how much gumption the team displayed during the challenging project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Amal Alamuddin, human rights lawyer and now George Clooney's fiancee, had only been famous a couple of weeks and she already had the gumption to break one of fashion's most entrenched rules.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Lazada's bosses say such charges underestimate the sophistication and gumption required to succeed in places such as Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam.

The Economist

First, by having the gumption and the manpower to reveal wrongdoing.

The Economist

Mr Bush's nomination speech made much of her feminist credentials, as well as her gumption in working her way through college Mr Bush once described her as "a pit bull in size six shoes".

The Economist

To start a firm you need gumption, and to succeed you need an eye for a gap in the market.

The Economist

With a little less gumption and a lot less gearing, "Dubai is plausible".

The Economist

But only if he has the gumption to turn his half-plan into a whole one.

The Economist

One bought a cigarette, the other a stick of incense.This segment of the middle class may lack the gumption to expand their businesses, or perhaps they know something about their prospects that their cheerleaders do not.

The Economist

Yet many people wonder whether Mr Hirai, a Sony lifer who joined the company in 1984, has the gumption to take an axe to its divisions.

The Economist

If it traded on the same p/e as the average emerging market (12.5), it would be worth around $1.77 trillion.In this section Winners and losers in the great Chinese rebalancing Trillion-dollar boo-boo Freedom to fudge A basket of sliders More data, less gumption Faking the buck Sun, wind and drain ReprintsNot all of this discount is down to the actions of the Russian government.

The Economist

Quite a lot of Republicans, especially the sort who vote in primaries, think that conservative purity could be a fine route to victory, if their party ever had the gumption to try it.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gumption" to describe someone who overcomes obstacles with creative problem-solving and determination. It's best suited for scenarios where resourcefulness is key.

Common error

While "gumption" implies initiative and courage, avoid using it in contexts where the individual's actions might be perceived as overly aggressive or disrespectful. Arrogance can easily be mistaken for gumption if not properly contextualized.

Linguistic Context

The word "gumption" primarily functions as a noun, denoting the qualities of initiative, resourcefulness, and courage. Ludwig examples show its use in describing individuals who take action and overcome challenges. It often suggests a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gumption" is a noun that signifies initiative, resourcefulness, and courage. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. It's frequently found in news and media, highlighting proactive problem-solving and resilience. While the word is widely understood, synonyms such as "initiative" or "resourcefulness" may be more appropriate in formal contexts. When using "gumption", be mindful of the potential for misinterpretation as arrogance and tailor your language accordingly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initiative

Focuses on the ability to start things independently.

resourcefulness

Highlights the ability to find clever ways to overcome difficulties.

drive

Emphasizes motivation and energy.

boldness

Highlights the willingness to take risks.

enterprise

Focuses on the readiness to undertake new ventures.

pluck

Highlights courage and spirit in the face of difficulties.

spirit

Emphasizes enthusiasm and determination.

audacity

Highlights boldness and daring, sometimes with a negative connotation.

backbone

Stresses strength of character and resolve.

nerve

Focuses on courage and composure, especially in a difficult situation.

FAQs

How can I use "gumption" in a sentence?

You can use "gumption" to describe someone who shows initiative, resourcefulness, and courage. For example, "She showed real gumption in starting her own business."

What are some synonyms for "gumption"?

Some synonyms for "gumption" include "initiative", "resourcefulness", "drive", and "boldness".

Is it appropriate to use "gumption" in formal writing?

While "gumption" is widely understood, it might be more appropriate to use synonyms like "initiative" or "resourcefulness" in highly formal or academic contexts. Check the tone of your writing to ensure it fits.

What's the difference between "gumption" and "audacity"?

"Gumption" generally implies a positive trait of resourcefulness and courage, while "audacity" often suggests boldness that might be considered disrespectful or reckless. The context determines the appropriate word.