lose nerve

USAGE SUMMARY

Sentence The phrase "lose nerve" is correct and usable in written English and can be used to describe someone who is losing their nerve or courage.
For example, you could say: "Due to the pressure of the situation he began to lose nerve."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Did a fifth bomber lose nerve and dump bomb?

The Times

I should just say it, but I lose nerve, make an introduction that alerts her.

The New Yorker

They lost confidence in him, and he, feeling increasingly embattled, seemed to lose nerve in his ability to achieve reform, acting more and more on the defensive.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

As for Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla)., his big failing was in losing nerve.

The Washington Post

Perhaps daunted by the world's most calorie-conscious neighborhood, Mr. Nodeland lost nerve.

The New York Times - Food

Democrats did not do a good job of managing expectations (or alternatively, according to DACA advocates, they lost nerve).

The Washington Post

"He who is ever brooding over result often loses nerve in the performance of his duty.

Huffington Post

In both cases, lost nerves translate into missed opportunities: The Russian car market is growing after a 4 year decline.

Forbes

Above all, they must not lose heart or nerve.

The Economist

She was beginning to lose her nerve.

The New Yorker

The Democrats lose their nerve at times.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lose nerve" when you want to emphasize a decline in someone's courage or confidence, often in a specific situation. It suggests a temporary state of reduced resolve rather than a permanent character trait.

Common error

Avoid using "lose nerve" to describe someone who is generally cowardly. The phrase is more appropriate for instances where an individual's courage falters temporarily due to specific circumstances.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lose nerve" functions as a verb phrase that describes a temporary decline in courage or confidence. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples, showing it is a valid and understandable expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Wiki

12%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lose nerve" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a temporary decline in courage or confidence. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is frequently used in news media and other general contexts. When writing, use "lose nerve" to describe a faltering of resolve due to specific circumstances, and consider alternatives like "lose courage" or "become intimidated" to add nuance. Avoid using it to characterize general cowardice. The phrase's neutrality makes it suitable for a wide range of writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lose courage

Direct synonym focusing on the loss of bravery.

lose confidence

Highlights the diminishing belief in one's abilities.

become intimidated

Focuses on the feeling of being daunted or scared by something.

get cold feet

Idiomatic expression for backing out at the last minute due to fear.

waver in resolve

Emphasizes the weakening of determination.

back down

Highlights the action of retreating from a commitment or confrontation.

succumb to pressure

Highlights the inability to withstand external stress or demands.

chicken out

Informal term for losing courage and avoiding something.

get stage fright

Anxious feeling before a performance or important event.

flake out

Informal term for failing to follow through, often due to anxiety.

FAQs

How can I use "lose nerve" in a sentence?

You can use "lose nerve" to describe a situation where someone's courage or confidence diminishes. For example, "He started to "lose nerve" as he approached the stage".

What does it mean to "lose nerve"?

To "lose nerve" means to experience a decline in courage, confidence, or resolve, often due to fear or pressure. It suggests a temporary state where someone's boldness diminishes.

What can I say instead of "lose nerve"?

You can use alternatives like "lose courage", "become intimidated", or "lose confidence" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "lost nerve" or "lose nerve"?

Both "lost nerve" and "lose nerve" are correct, depending on the tense you want to use. "Lose nerve" is present tense, while "lost nerve" is past tense.