Courageous Definition, Usage, and Synonyms

Meaning 1：brave (courageous)

courageous 🔊

/kəˈreɪ.dʒəs/

adj.

Showing bravery when facing fear or danger, like standing up for what is right.

Courageous definition illustrated by a determined firefighter rushing into a burning building.

brave 🔊

➕

/breɪv/

adj.

Possessing or characterized by courage; not deterred by danger or pain.

📁 Category：Social Roles 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'cor' (heart) via Old French 'corage'. The core idea is 'acting from the heart'.

💡 Mnemonic

Courage + ous. Think: Having the *heart* (cor) to take action when scared.

📖 Example

The firefighter made a courageous decision to go back into the burning building to save the trapped kitten. 🔊 The firefighter's action demonstrated exceptional bravery in a perilous situation.

🔗 Collocations

courageous act – A deed demonstrating bravery.

courageous decision – A brave choice made despite risk.

courageous person – An individual known for bravery.

🔄 Synonyms

brave (adj.) – Ready to face and endure danger or pain.

fearless (adj.) – Lacking fear.

valiant (adj.) – Possessing or showing courage or determination.

🚫 Antonyms

cowardly (adj.) – Lacking courage; easily frightened.

timid (adj.) – Showing a lack of courage or confidence.

fainthearted (adj.) – Lacking conviction or boldness; cowardly.

🌱 Derivatives

courage (n.) – The ability to do something that frightens one; bravery.

courageously (adv.) – In a brave manner.

📖 Cultural Story

Derived from the Latin 'cor', meaning heart. In medieval thought, the heart was the seat of inner strength and spirit. The term entered English via Old French 'corage', embodying the concept of acting with heart-felt bravery, especially in the face of fear. It's a cornerstone of many heroic narratives and leadership ideals.