selfless courage

USAGE SUMMARY

"selfless courage" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation in which someone chooses to put themselves at risk for the benefit of others. For example, "the crowd cheered in admiration for the brave firefighter's selfless courage in saving the children from the burning building."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

To its admirers, the poem's a tribute to the Light Brigade's selfless courage: to its attackers, it's the sentimental glorification of war and empire.

The Guardian - Books

The citation reads: "His actions and selfless courage under fire resulted in saving lives of several other members of the convoy" -- perhaps including Private Lynch.

The New York Times

He was moved by what he considered to be the selfless courage of the Russian terrorists who assassinated the tsar, Alexander II, in 1881; he felt this to be "a historically inevitable means of action".

Encyclopedia Britannica

But this tender beast is also responsible for the mysterious but fierce determination that drives Kobe Bryant, the graceful bemusement the Detroit Tigers pitcher Armando Galarraga showed when his perfect game slipped away, the selfless courage soldiers in Afghanistan show when they risk death for buddies or a family they may never see again.

The New York Times

This reproach, however, was as little in keeping with the social-ethical activities of the Inner Mission and of Methodists and Baptists as it was with the selfless courage of the Quakers, who fought against social demoralization, against the catastrophic situation in the prisons, against war, and, most of all, against slavery.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In refusing to rail against her fate, she set an example of selfless courage and heroism I shall never forget.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Blessed to know Barbara, beauty of soul, intuitive wisdom, selfless giving, her courage, her love, now with her angels.

The New York Times

It gave us heroes, selfless men of courage and strength, for our little boys and girls to follow.

The Guardian - Opinion

The archetypal American private eye is a good man who atones for his bad deeds by performing selfless acts of courage on behalf of others.

The New York Times - Books

He thanked police and colleagues in the Irish Republic, throughout the UK for their support and added: "I would like to also pay a special tribute to our military colleagues whose selfless dedication and courage have been so freely given on behalf of all of the people of Northern Ireland".

The Guardian

"Compassion and selfless acts of courage are to be commended and encouraged -- in children and in adults," the board said in a statement after announcing the decision.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing acts of "selfless courage", provide specific examples to illustrate the individual's actions and the risks they undertook. This adds credibility and impact to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "selfless courage" in overly sentimental or clichéd situations. Opt for more specific and nuanced language to convey the individual's bravery and selflessness if the situation is very particular. For example, instead of saying, "The hero displayed selfless courage", try "The hero risked his life to save the child from the flames."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "selfless courage" functions as a descriptive noun phrase, where "selfless" modifies and emphasizes the nature of "courage". It highlights a specific type of bravery characterized by a lack of concern for one's own well-being. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is correct and can be used to describe situations in which someone chooses to put themselves at risk for the benefit of others.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "selfless courage" is a grammatically sound and meaningful phrase used to describe bravery motivated by altruism. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in various contexts. While it appears most frequently in News & Media, it also finds use in encyclopedic and academic contexts. Remember to use the phrase in specific scenarios and avoid clichés to enhance the impact of your writing. Consider alternatives like "altruistic bravery" or "heroic self-sacrifice" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

altruistic bravery

Replaces "courage" with "bravery" and "selfless" with "altruistic", emphasizing the unselfish nature of the act.

self-forgetful bravery

Synonymous replacement for "courage" using "bravery", yet with an emphasis on actor's lack of self regard in undertaking action.

heroic self-sacrifice

Shifts focus to the act of "self-sacrifice", highlighting the willingness to give up something for others.

courageous self-denial

Focuses on the act of denying oneself for the sake of others, highlighting the "courage" required.

unyielding selflessness

Emphasizes the persistent nature of the "selflessness", portraying a steadfast commitment.

disinterested valor

Uses "valor" as a synonym for courage, but with the addition of "disinterested", which reinforces purity of intention and high-mindedness of actor.

noble sacrifice

Highlights the moral and ethical dimension of the act. Omits the "courage" component.

magnanimous heroism

Elevates the "heroism" to a grander scale, suggesting generosity and nobility of spirit.

unfaltering devotion

Concentrates on "devotion" as a driver for the act, stressing steadfastness and loyalty. Deemphasizes the element of bravery.

humanitarian fortitude

Uses "fortitude" rather than "courage" to signal strength and staying power.

FAQs

How can I use "selfless courage" in a sentence?

You can use "selfless courage" to describe someone who risks their own well-being for the benefit of others. For instance, "The firefighter demonstrated "selfless courage" by entering the burning building to rescue the trapped residents."

What is a good synonym for "selfless courage"?

Alternatives to "selfless courage" include "altruistic bravery", "heroic self-sacrifice", or "unyielding selflessness", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "selfless courage" redundant?

While "courage" often implies a degree of selflessness, using "selfless courage" emphasizes the complete disregard for one's own safety or well-being. It reinforces the idea that the action was motivated purely by the desire to help others.

What distinguishes "selfless courage" from regular courage?

"Courage" generally refers to bravery in the face of danger. "Selfless courage" specifically highlights that the brave act is performed with no thought for personal gain or safety, driven entirely by the desire to assist or protect others.