brave

C1 · Advanced British English · Humorous

adj. a polite or funny way to say that someone is being a bit foolish or taking a big risk.

adj. used euphemistically or ironically to describe a decision that is perceived as reckless or likely to fail.

“That is a brave choice of outfit for such a formal wedding.”

“The minister described the proposed policy as a brave move, which everyone in the room understood as a polite way of calling it political suicide.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to deal with something difficult or unpleasant in a direct and courageous way.

v. to endure or face unpleasant conditions or a difficult challenge with fortitude.

“We decided to brave the snow and walk to the grocery store.”

“The small fishing vessel had to brave the Atlantic gales for three days before reaching the safety of the harbour.”

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Archaic

n. an old word for a Native American warrior.

n. a term formerly used to refer to a North American Indian warrior.

“The old stories told of a young brave who saved his village.”

“Nineteenth-century frontier novels often depicted the Sioux braves as formidable and highly skilled tactical opponents.”