what a courage

USAGE SUMMARY

"what a courage" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in a sentence as a way to express admiration or respect for someone's bravery or strength of character. For example, "He was faced with a difficult decision, but he made it with such strength. What a courage!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

"What a profile in courage," snarks Hume.

Huffington Post

"I understand now, even better than before, what a feat of courage that is".

Huffington Post

This very awareness is also what infuses you with a courage you did not know you had to reach out to that person and ask for guidance and support.

Huffington Post

"What takes courage is being without a job, being without a place to live, having your very existence in jeopardy".

The New York Times

Watching the film, one should reflect on what an act of compassion, and courage, this may be.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Enduring tedium over real time in a confined space is what real courage is," accounting students are informed with evangelical zeal by their instructor.

The New York Times - Books

"It is a remarkable testimony to what human courage can do and achieve," he said.

BBC

And thanks to Saba Ahmed, we have a clear example of what this courage looks like in action.

Huffington Post

If writers won't honor their courage, then what courage can we honor?

The New Yorker

Kamryn and Delaney have defined what courage, friendship, and bravery really mean.

Huffington Post

Never can I look at an actor and not think what amazing courage it takes".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "what a courage" to express sincere admiration for someone facing a difficult situation or displaying remarkable bravery. This phrase is most effective when emphasizing the magnitude of the courage shown.

Common error

Avoid using "what a courage" sarcastically, as it can be easily misinterpreted. Sarcasm can be lost in written communication, and this phrase is generally understood as genuine praise. Instead, use more obviously sarcastic phrasing if that is your intent.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what a courage" functions as an exclamatory expression. It is used to convey a strong sense of admiration and respect for someone's bravery or fortitude, although Ludwig indicates it is less common than alternatives.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Formal & Business

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "what a courage" serves as an exclamatory phrase to express deep admiration for someone's bravery and resilience. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable, though less common than alternatives like "what bravery" or "such valor". Primarily found in news, business, and scientific contexts, it's best used to sincerely acknowledge someone's fortitude. The phrase should be avoided in sarcastic contexts to prevent misinterpretation. Remember, while the phrase is valid, being aware of the more common options can enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what bravery

Substitutes "courage" with a direct synonym, focusing on the quality of being brave.

what a display of courage

Expands the phrase to explicitly state that courage was demonstrated, adding emphasis.

what fortitude

Replaces "courage" with a synonym that emphasizes mental and emotional strength in facing adversity.

that's real courage

Turns the exclamation into a declarative statement, emphasizing the genuineness of the courage.

such valor

Replaces the whole phrase with a more formal and emphatic expression of courage.

what grit

Replaces courage with a term implying toughness and perseverance in the face of adversity.

what determination

Shifts the focus from pure courage to the strength of will and resolve demonstrated.

such intrepidity

Uses a more formal and less common synonym for courage, implying fearlessness and boldness.

what resilience

Highlights the ability to recover quickly from difficulties, a related aspect of courage.

what spirit

Emphasizes the inner strength and enthusiasm displayed, which can contribute to courage.

FAQs

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

You can use "what a courage" to express admiration. For example: "He stood up against injustice, facing strong opposition. What a courage!"

What phrases are similar to "what a courage"?

Alternatives include "what bravery", "such valor", or "what fortitude". Each conveys a strong sense of admiration for someone's bravery or resilience.

Is "what a courage" grammatically correct?

Yes, "what a courage" is grammatically acceptable as an exclamatory phrase, though less common than other similar expressions. Ludwig confirms its usability.

When is it appropriate to use "what a courage"?

"What a courage" is most fitting when you want to express deep respect and astonishment at someone's bravery or determination in a challenging situation. Using "that's real courage" is an alternative way of expressing admiration.