Dutch courage
The courage or bravado induced by alcohol.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“He drank a beer for some Dutch courage before his speech.”
“She felt too nervous to ask for a raise, so she relied on a glass of wine for a bit of Dutch courage.”
“The young soldier sought Dutch courage in a flask of whiskey before facing the daunting task ahead.”
The term originated as an ethnic slur arising from a period of intense political rivalry between England and the Netherlands. The phrase reflects the geopolitical tensions of the era, though the source records no specific dates for its first appearance.
- 01
courage of one's convictions
Steadfast adherence to one's beliefs or principles, especially in the face of criticism or other opposition.
- 02
digital courage
The sense of being able or emboldened to say something to someone over digital media (text, instant message, etc.) that one would not normally say face to face.
- 03
Dutch reckoning
A (falsified) bill that is not itemised, and that is unjustifiably high.
- 04
go Dutch
To pay for one's own food and bills, or split the cost, when eating at a restaurant or going out for entertainment.
- 05
liquid courage
Alcohol drunk to induce a feeling of courage.
- 06
take one's courage in both hands
To summon up one's courage in readiness for a difficult or dangerous action.
Last updated August 10, 2026