English Reference
adjective

courageous

adj.
US /kɝˈeɪdʒəs/ UK /kʌɹˈeɪdʒəs/ coura·geous

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    brave and determined, even when a situation is scary or difficult.

    possessing or displaying courage; showing mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty.

    Simple

    The courageous firefighter ran into the burning building to save the family.

    In context

    She was a courageous leader who remained calm and decisive even when the company faced its most significant financial crisis.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    describes an action or decision that is difficult to make because it involves risk.

    characterised by courage; used to describe actions, decisions, or efforts that require significant bravery or moral fortitude.

    Simple

    It was a courageous decision to quit his job and start his own business.

    In context

    The journalist made a courageous stand against government censorship, despite knowing the personal risks involved in publishing the report.

The physiotherapist from Manchester died after “a long and courageous battle with cancer”, relatives said.

The Guardian· 24 Aug 2026

Is Maresca courageous for following The Man or naive for believing he can?

The Guardian· 18 Aug 2026

From Middle English corajous, from Old French corageus, from corage + -eus.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Old French corageus
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated