show some grit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "show some grit" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to encourage someone to demonstrate determination and resilience in the face of challenges. Example: "Despite the setbacks, I know you can overcome this obstacle; just show some grit and keep pushing forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

But after urging Myanmar to work with the UN to bring democracy, the summiteers backed down at once when General Thein Sein objected to their plan for Ibrahim Gambari, the UN's envoy to Myanmar, to brief them at the summit.The only leader to show some grit was President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo of the Philippines.

The Economist

"They need to make 323 to avoid the follow-on, but with their first three batsmen back in the pavilion inside 17 overs that will be tough to reach, unless they can show some grit and determination.

BBC

C'mon -- show some grit.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

He gave up a run in the fifth but showed some grit to get out of the inning.

The New York Times - Sports

In a game they had to have, the Pacers finally showed some grit and regained the home-court edge.

The Guardian - Sport

Sock, who is 20, said he has been driven by the memory of his friends at Roland Garros, and he showed some grit during last week's qualifying rounds.

The New York Times

At 2-0 down, though, Safina showed some grit to save three break points and then broke serve herself on the way to one set all.

The Guardian - Sport

It did not erase Benitez's futility in important games, but he showed some grit in his first save against Atlanta this season.

The New York Times - Sports

At the show's end, Lil Wayne's 2008 anthem "A Milli" piped in over the speakers, and Mr. Thicke, dancing and surrounded by his band members at the front of the stage, showed some grit by rapping along.

The New York Times - Arts

He looked stronger Saturday, and though he struggled at times, giving up a three-run homer to second baseman Danny Espinoza and a solo shot to Ian Desmond, Capuano also showed some grit by working his way out of a bases-loaded jam in the third inning and by stranding two more base runners to close the fifth.

The New York Times

The Giants scored on the first possession of the game, when Andre Brown bulled into the end zone from 2 yards, and Manning showed some grit, scrambling for 13 yards on a third-and-7 and lowering his right shoulder — his throwing shoulder — to plow over Packers cornerback Tramon Williams.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "show some grit" when you want to encourage someone to face a difficult situation with courage and determination. It's best suited for scenarios where resilience is key to overcoming obstacles.

Common error

Avoid using "show some grit" in trivial situations. The phrase carries a connotation of significant challenge and may sound exaggerated if applied to minor inconveniences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "show some grit" functions as an imperative, urging someone to display courage and determination in a difficult situation. Ludwig examples confirm that it's used to encourage resilience.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "show some grit" is an imperative phrase used to encourage someone to display courage and determination when facing a difficult situation. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that it is grammatically correct, although it's more common in neutral to informal contexts. Alternatives include "demonstrate resilience", "display fortitude", and "exhibit determination", depending on the nuance you want to convey. While it's effective for motivating someone to persevere, avoid overusing it in trivial situations to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

demonstrate resilience

Focuses on the ability to recover quickly from difficulties.

display fortitude

Highlights courage and endurance in pain or adversity.

exhibit determination

Emphasizes a firm decision to achieve a goal despite obstacles.

muster courage

Focuses on gathering or summoning bravery.

tough it out

Suggests enduring a difficult situation with strength.

persevere through adversity

Highlights continuing steadfastly despite challenges.

stand firm

Emphasizes resisting pressure and maintaining one's position.

hold your ground

Focuses on defending one's position or beliefs.

dig in your heels

Suggests resisting change or opposition stubbornly.

face the music

Implies accepting the consequences of one's actions bravely.

FAQs

How can I use "show some grit" in a sentence?

You can use "show some grit" to encourage someone facing adversity. For example, "The team needs to "demonstrate resilience" and show some grit if they want to win the championship."

What's a good alternative to "show some grit"?

Alternatives include "demonstrate resilience", "display fortitude", or "exhibit determination", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "show some grit"?

It's appropriate when someone is facing a tough challenge and needs to "muster courage" and perseverance to overcome it. It implies a need for inner strength and resolve.

Is "show some grit" formal or informal?

"Show some grit" is generally considered informal but can be used in neutral contexts. For a more formal setting, consider alternatives like "demonstrate resilience" or "exhibit determination".