# courage

/ˈkɝədʒ/ (US) · /kˈʌɹɪdʒ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/courage
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. bravery in the face of fear

noun · CEFR B1

the ability to do something that frightens you.

For teachers: the quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, or pain without fear; bravery.

- It took a lot of courage for her to stand up and speak in front of the large crowd.
- The young firefighter showed incredible courage when he entered the collapsing building to search for survivors before the roof gave way.

Usage: uncountable noun; often used with the verbs 'have', 'show', or 'find'.

### 2. moral strength

noun · CEFR B2

the strength to do what you believe is right, even if others disagree or it is difficult.

For teachers: moral fortitude; the ability to maintain one's will or intent despite adversity, frustration, or social pressure.

- He had the courage to admit he was wrong even though he knew he would be punished.
- Whistleblowers often require significant moral courage to expose corporate malpractice, knowing that their careers and reputations may be at risk.

Usage: often referred to as 'moral courage' to distinguish it from physical bravery.

## Examples

- It takes courage to speak in front of a large crowd.
- The firefighter showed immense courage when she ran into the burning building to rescue the trapped family.
- True courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the conscious decision that a particular goal is more important than the immediate threat to one's safety or reputation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.