show more courage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "show more courage" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when encouraging someone to be braver or to take more risks in a situation. Example: "In times of adversity, we must all strive to show more courage and stand up for what we believe in."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

New York's next governor may have to show more courage.

The Economist

The near defeat also led to wider warning for Labour to show more courage and run less bloodless campaigns.

The Guardian

Some residents hope Newtown can show more courage than Washington and deal forthrightly with its own need to tighten local gun controls.

The New York Times

If he is to fulfill his own vision of a Serbia anchored in the West, he is going to have to show more courage and a firmer hand.

The New York Times

Pro-EU politicians need to show more courage in opposing Brexit, Peter Mandelson has said, as he urged the public to donate in support of Tony Blair's call for an uprising against leaving the bloc.

The Guardian

After 26 Democratic moderates joined with Republicans to pass an amendment on a key gun-control bill, Pelosi said they should show more "courage" on politically sensitive votes, according to the people in the room.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Let's hope Mr. Obama shows more courage on guns in his second term.

The New York Times

The truth is, it sometimes shows more courage to leave than to stay.

The New York Times

They have perhaps shown more courage in the necessary artistic manipulation of symbols.

The New York Times

Malala Yousafzai has shown more courage in facing down the Taliban than Pakistan's government and its military leaders.

The New York Times

Malala has shown more courage in facing down the Taliban than Pakistan's government and its military leaders.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "show more courage" with specific actions to make the advice more actionable. For example, "show more courage in making difficult decisions" or "show more courage in standing up for your beliefs".

Common error

Avoid using "show more courage" in contexts where someone is already facing significant personal hardship or trauma, as it may come across as insensitive or dismissive of their experiences. Focus on providing support and understanding instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "show more courage" functions as an imperative, urging or advising someone to exhibit greater bravery. It often appears in contexts where decisive action or resilience is needed. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "show more courage" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to encourage bravery and determination. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it fits well in various contexts, particularly news and media, and professional settings. While urging boldness, it’s important to use this phrase with sensitivity, avoiding situations where individuals are already facing significant hardships. Alternatives such as "demonstrate greater bravery" or "exhibit more valor" may suit different contexts, each offering subtle nuances. By understanding its appropriate use and communicative purpose, one can effectively employ "show more courage" to inspire and motivate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

demonstrate greater bravery

Focuses on the act of demonstrating bravery, implying a visible display of courage. The wording is slightly more formal.

exhibit more valor

Emphasizes valor, which is often associated with heroism and notable acts of bravery, creating a more dramatic and formal tone.

display increased fortitude

Highlights mental and emotional strength in facing adversity, shifting the focus from outward action to inner resilience.

muster additional grit

Implies gathering or summoning determination and resilience, suggesting a need to overcome a specific obstacle.

take a bolder stance

Focuses on adopting a firmer, more assertive position, particularly in situations involving conflict or opposition.

be more daring

Encourages a willingness to take risks and challenge norms, emphasizing adventurousness.

find greater resolve

Emphasizes the need to strengthen one's determination to achieve a goal, highlighting inner strength.

step up with boldness

Implies taking decisive action with confidence and courage, highlighting proactive behavior.

act with greater intrepidity

Highlights fearlessness and adventurousness, suggesting a willingness to face dangers or challenges head-on. This is a more formal option.

rise to the occasion valiantly

Stresses responding to a challenge with courage and honor, often in a momentous or critical situation.

FAQs

How can I encourage someone to "show more courage" in a difficult situation?

You can encourage someone to "show more courage" by reminding them of their past successes, offering your support, and helping them to focus on the positive outcomes of taking bold action. Frame it as an opportunity for growth and demonstrate faith in their capabilities.

What does it mean to "show more courage" in a professional setting?

In a professional setting, to "show more courage" often means taking calculated risks, advocating for innovative ideas, and addressing difficult issues directly. It involves being willing to challenge the status quo and speak up even when it's uncomfortable.

Which is a better way to ask someone to be brave, "show more courage" or "demonstrate greater bravery"?

Both "show more courage" and "demonstrate greater bravery" are grammatically correct, but "show more courage" is more conversational and common. "Demonstrate greater bravery" sounds more formal and emphasizes a visible display of courage.

When is it inappropriate to ask someone to "show more courage"?

It's inappropriate to ask someone to "show more courage" when they're already in a vulnerable position or dealing with significant personal challenges. In such situations, focus on empathy and support rather than pushing them to take actions they may not be ready for. Asking someone to "muster additional grit" may be inappropriate in these situations as well.