the ability to do something that frightens one, strength in the face of pain or grief

pluck up (one's) courage, have the courage to be disliked, a trial of courage

have the courage of one's convictions, take one's courage in both hands, lose one's courage

Formal and Informal Expressions of courage

In different contexts, you can replace 'courage' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'bravery, valor' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'guts, nerve' is a commonplace synonym.

courage: Explore its Definition & Usage

courage Definition

1the ability to do something that frightens one
2strength in the face of pain or grief

Using courage: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "courage" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
It took a lot of courage to speak up against the injustice.
Example
The firefighters showed great courage in rescuing the people trapped inside the burning building.
Example
She faced her fears with courage and determination.

courage Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for courage

Antonyms for courage

Idioms Using courage

pluck up (one's) courage
to summon the courage to do something difficult or frightening
Example
She plucked up her courage and went bungee jumping for the first time.
have the courage to be disliked
to be confident in oneself and not seek approval or validation from others
Example
She has the courage to be disliked and doesn't care what others think of her.
a trial of courage
a difficult or dangerous situation that requires bravery to overcome
Example
The expedition through the jungle was a trial of courage for the explorers.

Phrases with courage

have the courage of one's convictions
to act according to one's beliefs despite opposition or criticism
Example
She had the courage of her convictions and stood up for what she believed in.
take one's courage in both hands
to summon the courage to do something difficult or frightening
Example
He took his courage in both hands and asked her out on a date.
lose one's courage
to become afraid or lose confidence
Example
She lost her courage when she saw the size of the waves.

Origins of courage

from Old French 'corage', from Latin 'cor', meaning 'heart'

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Summary: courage in Brief

The term 'courage' [ˈkʌrɪdʒ] refers to the ability to face fear and pain with strength and bravery. It is exemplified by acts like speaking up against injustice, as well as idioms like 'pluck up (one's) courage,' which denotes summoning bravery to do something difficult. 'Courage' extends into phrases like 'have the courage of one's convictions,' denoting acting according to one's beliefs, and 'a trial of courage,' implying a difficult situation that requires bravery.