courage

Synonym Chooser

How is the word courage distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of courage are mettle, resolution, spirit, and tenacity. While all these words mean "mental or moral strength to resist opposition, danger, or hardship," courage implies firmness of mind and will in the face of danger or extreme difficulty.

the courage to support unpopular causes

When might mettle be a better fit than courage?

In some situations, the words mettle and courage are roughly equivalent. However, mettle suggests an ingrained capacity for meeting strain or difficulty with fortitude and resilience.

a challenge that will test your mettle

When is it sensible to use resolution instead of courage?

Although the words resolution and courage have much in common, resolution stresses firm determination to achieve one's ends.

the resolution of pioneer women

In what contexts can spirit take the place of courage?

While in some cases nearly identical to courage, spirit also suggests a quality of temperament enabling one to hold one's own or keep up one's morale when opposed or threatened.

her spirit was unbroken by failure

How are the words tenacity and resolution related as synonyms of courage?

Tenacity adds to resolution implications of stubborn persistence and unwillingness to admit defeat.

held to their beliefs with great tenacity

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of courage This effort, led by the Orlando Economic Partnership, is grounded in the belief that great communities don’t just happen — they are envisioned, shaped, and built by people with the courage to think long-term and act with purpose. Tim Giuliani, Orlando Sentinel, 19 Mar. 2025 Despite being initially presented as a love interest, her character demonstrates practical automotive knowledge and courage in combat situations, often using her technical skills to assist the Autobots. 18. Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 19 Mar. 2025 Chris Prichard's life sentence also helped bring her family some comfort, and the courage to move forward. Jonathan Vigliotti, CBS News, 16 Mar. 2025 Final Thoughts In 2025, businesses that thrive will be those that have the courage to define a niche and serve it relentlessly. Sneha Lundia, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for courage
Recent Examples of Synonyms for courage
Noun
  • Mixed in with small pleasures and petty disputes with her older sister are true feats of survival and bravery.
    Lynette Rice, Deadline, 22 Mar. 2025
  • The show’s bravery in exploring mature topics, like infertility, has also moved parents.
    Leena Tailor, The Hollywood Reporter, 18 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • President Barack Obama later honored him for his heroism.
    Monica Mercuri, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025
  • That his record is treated as honorable, rather than hushed up and relegated to the trash bin of history, is a sour commentary on heroism and distinction in modern America.
    Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles Times, 19 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Queen Victoria created the unit in 1900 after an adviser suggested that the Irish regiments should wear shamrocks on their headdress every St. Patrick's Day as a nod to the crown's appreciation for their gallantry during the Boer War, the British Army said.
    Janine Henni, People.com, 19 Mar. 2025
  • He was deployed to Italy, where his conspicuous gallantry in combat earned him the Military Cross.
    Lawrence D. Freedman, Foreign Affairs, 1 Jan. 2020
Noun
  • The skit cunningly notes that a lot of what has been said about Smith wouldn’t be said to his face and taps nearly four decades of comedy prowess.
    Mankaprr Conteh, Rolling Stone, 31 Mar. 2025
  • Brian, an avid hunter known for his cooking prowess, owns Forest River Bean Co., and several hunting properties in the area.
    Brad Dokken, Twin Cities, 29 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • The robot is designed to treat complex patient problems in the field of reconstructive surgery, lymphatic surgery, peripheral nerve repair and trauma.
    Pamela McLoughlin, Hartford Courant, 1 Apr. 2025
  • Calcium is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth and regulating nerve function.
    Jillian Kubala, Health, 1 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Courage.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/courage. Accessed 5 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on courage

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