Courage is a highly valued trait, and language reflects this through numerous idioms that convey bravery and fearlessness. In this post, we’ll explore 20 idioms that describe courage, providing their meanings and example sentences to illustrate their use.
1. Bite the Bullet
Meaning: Endure pain bravely.
Example: She decided to bite the bullet and get vaccinated.
2. Take the Plunge
Meaning: Commit boldly.
Example: He took the plunge and started his own business.
3. Face the Music
Meaning: Confront consequences.
Example: It’s time to face the music for your actions.
4. Brave the Elements
Meaning: Endure harsh weather.
Example: They braved the elements to complete the hike.
5. Hold One’s Ground
Meaning: Stand firm.
Example: She held her ground during the heated debate.
6. Heart of a Lion
Meaning: Very brave.
Example: He showed the heart of a lion in the game.
7. In the Line of Fire
Meaning: Facing danger.
Example: The soldiers are always in the line of fire.
8. Stick One’s Neck Out
Meaning: Take a risk.
Example: He stuck his neck out to defend his friend.
9. Toe the Line
Meaning: Follow the rules bravely.
Example: She toed the line despite the challenges.
10. Take the Bull by the Horns
Meaning: Confront a problem directly.
Example: She took the bull by the horns and fixed the issue.
11. Bold as Brass
Meaning: Confidently bold.
Example: She walked in, bold as brass, and asked for a raise.
12. Throw Caution to the Wind
Meaning: Act recklessly.
Example: He threw caution to the wind and invested heavily.
13. Daredevil
Meaning: Risk-taker.
Example: He’s a daredevil, always trying extreme sports.
14. Gutsy Move
Meaning: Brave action.
Example: It was a gutsy move to confront the CEO.
15. Lionhearted
Meaning: Brave and determined.
Example: The lionhearted soldier saved his platoon.
16. Put One’s Head Above the Parapet
Meaning: Take a risk.
Example: She put her head above the parapet with her controversial opinion.
17. Go Out on a Limb
Meaning: Take a risk.
Example: He went out on a limb to support the new plan.
18. Steel Oneself
Meaning: Prepare mentally.
Example: She steeled herself for the tough interview.
19. Stand Tall
Meaning: Be proud and brave.
Example: He stood tall in the face of criticism.
20. Show True Colors
Meaning: Reveal true bravery.
Example: He showed his true colors during the crisis.
