mettle

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "mettle" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is an archaic term used to describe someone's courage, endurance, strength of character, or spirit. For example: Helen was praised for her mettle as she bravely faced her greatest challenge.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In overturning a two-goal deficit from the first leg of a play-off for the first time, France showed that they had mettle.

The Guardian - Sport

I don't think that will be the case and, of course, we will be on our mettle".

The Guardian

The next two rounds will provide a sterner test of this team's mettle, however – taking them to San Siro to face Inter next Sunday, then back home to host Napoli after the international break.

The Guardian - Sport

North's mettle will undergo a more taxing examination on Saturday night when they host Port Adelaide, with Dal Santo almost certain to be sidelined after tweaking his hamstring in the third quarter against Brisbane.

The Guardian - Sport

Then in his fourth innings Stokes had the mettle to show us what he could do.

The Guardian - Sport

Said garage is now Studio A. Reaffirming the hotel's rock'n'roll mettle, amenities include 24-hour butler service, Jacuzzis, use of the hotel's Bentley and a "paparazzi diversion" service.

The Guardian - Travel

On May 16th Mr Yudhoyono once again showed his environmental mettle: despite intense pressure from commercial interests, he signed a decree extending the moratorium for two more years.This is good news for Indonesia's forests, home to a dizzying diversity of wildlife, from endangered orangutans and rhinos to a Rafflesia that produces the largest flower on earth (1 metre, or three feet, wide).

The Economist

Aécio Neves, the likely candidate of the biggest opposition group, the Party of Brazilian Social Democracy (PDSB), seems to lack the mettle to face a strong incumbent.

The Economist

Indeed, Mr Obama's challenge seems a perfect test of Mr Romney's political mettle.

The Economist

According to one theory, hunting gives men an opportunity to display their genetic mettle, so they do it to attract mates as much as to bring home the wild-boar bacon.

The Economist

Mr Bush emphasised his personal mettle, saying that he means what he says, as opposed to Mr Kerry, who waffles confusingly.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "mettle", consider the context to ensure it aligns with the tone. While versatile, it's most impactful when highlighting resilience and bravery in challenging situations.

Common error

Avoid using "mettle" in very informal contexts; its somewhat archaic and formal nature can sound out of place in casual conversation. Opt for synonyms like "courage" or "grit" for more relaxed communication.

Linguistic Context

The word "mettle" functions primarily as a noun, denoting a quality of endurance and courage. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is indeed a valid and useful term in the English language. The examples indicate it is frequently used to describe someone's inherent strength of character in the face of challenges.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

18%

Science

14%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "mettle" is a noun that signifies courage, endurance, and strength of character. As Ludwig AI confirms, the term is grammatically sound and suitable for use in written English. Primarily utilized in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts, it effectively conveys resilience and bravery. While not strictly formal, it's most impactful in neutral and formal settings, emphasizing inherent strengths when facing adversity. When choosing a synonym, consider the specific context to ensure it aligns with the tone of your message. Ludwig's examples, drawn from authoritative sources, highlight the word's consistent application and reliability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resilience

Focuses on the ability to recover quickly from difficulties.

resoluteness

Highlights the quality of being firm and determined.

grit and determination

Highlights perseverance and resolve in overcoming challenges.

tenacity

Emphasizes persistence and determination in achieving a goal.

spirit of fortitude

Emphasizes the mental and emotional strength in facing adversity.

unyielding spirit

Highlights an unbreakable and persistent attitude.

inner strength

Focuses on the internal fortitude rather than outward display.

pluck

Refers to spirited and determined courage.

courage under fire

Specifically refers to bravery in difficult or dangerous situations.

moral fiber

Emphasizes the ethical and principled aspect of one's character.

FAQs

How can I use "mettle" in a sentence?

Use "mettle" to describe someone's strength of character, such as: "The team showed their "mettle" by overcoming a significant deficit".

What are some alternatives to using "mettle"?

Depending on the context, you could use "courage", "grit", "resilience", or "fortitude" as alternatives to "mettle".

Is it appropriate to use "mettle" in casual conversation?

While grammatically correct, "mettle" is generally more suitable for formal writing or speeches. In casual conversation, simpler words like "courage" or "strength" might be more fitting.

What does it mean to 'test one's mettle'?

To 'test one's mettle' means to challenge someone's "strength", "courage", or "ability to endure" a difficult situation. It is to see how well they perform under pressure.