What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
courageous
Example
The firefighter was courageous in his efforts to save the family from the burning building. [courageous: adjective]
Example
She showed her courageous spirit by speaking out against injustice, even when it put her own safety at risk. [courageous: noun]
valiant
Example
The soldiers fought valiantly to defend their country from the enemy. [valiant: adverb]
Example
He was remembered as a valiant hero who sacrificed his life to save others. [valiant: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Courageous is more commonly used than valiant in everyday language. Courageous is a more neutral term that can be used in a variety of contexts, while valiant is less common and may be seen as more formal or literary.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between courageous and valiant?
Valiant is typically associated with a more formal or literary tone, while courageous can be used in both formal and informal contexts.