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courage
/ˈkɜːr.ɪdʒ/
bravery in facing fear or difficulty
She showed great courage when standing up for her beliefs.
She demonstrated mental strength and bravery when defending her opinions despite opposition.
formal
The ability to do something that frightens oneself, or strength when facing pain, danger, or difficulty.
It takes courage to admit when you have made a mistake.
Admitting your errors requires inner strength and willingness to face discomfort.
Uncountable noun; used without articles like 'a' or 'an'.
Collocations
have the courage tobe brave enough to do somethingsummon couragegather or build up braverymoral couragebravery to stand up for ethical principlespluck up courageforce oneself to be brave in a intimidating moment
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Courage vs. Bravery
'Courage' focuses on choosing to act despite feeling fear or pain, while 'bravery' often emphasizes an outward display of fearless action.
Gold Rule
Uncountable Noun Usage
Do not place 'a' or 'an' before 'courage' or make it plural as 'courages'.
Word Origin
From Old French 'corage', derived from Vulgar Latin '*coraticum', rooted in Latin 'cor' (heart), reflecting the idea that heart is the seat of feelings and character.
Usage Notes
'Courage' is an uncountable noun. Say 'It takes courage', never 'It takes a courage'. While often used interchangeably with 'bravery', 'courage' emphasizes overcoming internal fear or enduring prolonged emotional difficulty.
Word Breakdown
cour-
heart (Latin 'cor')
root-age
state, condition, or quality
suffixEnglish Dictionary