Courage: meaning, definitions and examples

Courage is the mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty. It is often associated with inner strength and resolve.

• She showed great courage in fighting the disease.
• It takes a lot of courage to speak up for what is right.

Bravery refers to the quality of being ready to face and endure danger or pain. It often involves physical action and quick decisions in the face of fear.

• The firefighter's bravery saved many lives that day.
• He was awarded a medal for his bravery in the battle.

Valor is great courage in the face of danger, especially in battle. It is often used in formal or literary contexts and is associated with acts of heroism and gallantry.

• He was awarded the Medal of Valor for his service in the war.
• The knight's valor was legendary among his people.

Fearlessness implies a lack of fear in the face of danger. It is often used to describe someone who shows no sign of fear even in the most dangerous situations.

• Her fearlessness on the tightrope amazed the crowd.
• The fearlessness of the explorer in the wild jungles was remarkable.

Used in general situations where someone shows bravery, especially in facing danger or adversity.

• It took a lot of courage to stand up to the bully.
• She showed great courage when she rescued the dog from the fire.

Specifically refers to the ability to act ethically and stand up for what is right, even in the face of social or personal pressure.

• It took a lot of moral courage to speak out against the injustice.
• She showed moral courage by refusing to participate in the corrupt scheme.

Describes the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles. It is used to talk about ethical and moral courage.

• He is a man of integrity who always tells the truth.
• Her integrity was never in question during the investigation.

Refers to strength of mind that helps someone endure pain or adversity with courage. It is often used in more formal contexts.

• She bore her illness with great fortitude.
• Despite suffering many hardships, he showed remarkable fortitude.