courage
- 01 B1 Intermediate
the ability to do something that frightens you.
the quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, or pain without fear; bravery.
Simple“It took a lot of courage for her to stand up and speak in front of the large crowd.”
In context“The young firefighter showed incredible courage when he entered the collapsing building to search for survivors before the roof gave way.”
Usageuncountable noun; often used with the verbs 'have', 'show', or 'find'.
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
the strength to do what you believe is right, even if others disagree or it is difficult.
moral fortitude; the ability to maintain one's will or intent despite adversity, frustration, or social pressure.
Simple“He had the courage to admit he was wrong even though he knew he would be punished.”
In context“Whistleblowers often require significant moral courage to expose corporate malpractice, knowing that their careers and reputations may be at risk.”
Usageoften referred to as 'moral courage' to distinguish it from physical bravery.
Antonyms
“Four years later he plucked up the courage to ring him up, and after several more calls they met in person and eventually Prince Laurent suggested they take a DNA test.”
“It is a masterclass in inventiveness, playfulness and creative courage.”
From Middle English corage, from Old French corage (French courage), from Vulgar Latin *corāticum, from Latin cor (“heart”). Distantly related to cardiac (“of the heart”), which is from Greek, but from the same Proto-Indo-European root. Displaced Middle English elne, ellen, from Old English ellen (“courage, valor”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.