student asking question

What does "lose one's nerve" mean?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

To understand this expression, it is best to break it down. The word "nerve", often refers to someone's confidence, bravery, or courage. So "lose one's nerve" is another way to say "become afraid" or "lose courage" to do something that someone originally intended to do. Here are a few examples of this expression: Ex: He was about to ski down the mountain when he suddenly lost his nerve. Ex: I wanted to ride the roller coaster, but I lost my nerve once I saw it.

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