Nerve: meaning, definitions and examples

It's the same word but also can mean 'audacity' or 'boldness' in a more informal and sometimes negative sense.

• She had the nerve to ask for a raise after just two months on the job.
• I can't believe he had the nerve to insult our host.

Refers to the long, thread-like part of a nerve cell along which impulses travel. This term is typically used in anatomical, physiological, and medical contexts.

• Nerve fibers in the peripheral nervous system are responsible for sensory information.
• Damage to nerve fibers can result in loss of sensation or movement.

Used in scientific and medical contexts to specifically refer to neurons, which are cells that transmit nerve impulses. This term is more technical and precise.

• Nerve cells are the building blocks of the nervous system.
• Researchers are studying how nerve cells communicate.

Another term for 'nerve cell' but more commonly used in scientific literature and research. It's frequently used when discussing brain function, neuroscience, and cellular biology.

• Neurons transmit information throughout the brain and body.
• There are billions of neurons in the human brain.

Nerve can also imply audacity or cheekiness, and in some contexts, it has a negative connotation, suggesting someone is being overly forward or rude.

• He had the nerve to criticize my cooking!
• Can you believe she had the nerve to ask for more money?

Courage is the ability to confront fear, pain, danger, uncertainty, or intimidation. It is broader than bravery and can apply to both physical and mental challenges.

• He showed tremendous courage in fighting his illness.
• It takes courage to stand up for what you believe in, no matter the consequences.

Bravery refers to the quality of being ready to face and endure danger or pain. It suggests valor and is often associated with physical confrontations or acts of heroism.

• The soldier was awarded a medal for his bravery in battle.
• It took great bravery for her to rescue the child from the burning building.

Boldness is used to describe behavior that is confident, willing to take risks, and is often unconventional. It has a positive connotation when referring to actions that challenge the status quo.

• His boldness in proposing a new business strategy impressed the board.
• The artist's boldness in using vibrant colors made her work stand out.

Typically used in situations where someone needs to gather courage, often in preparation for a challenging or frightening task.

• She had to nerve herself before stepping onto the stage.
• He finally nerved himself to ask for a promotion.

Used when someone wants to offer support, confidence, or hope to another person, generally in a positive and supportive manner.

• Her teacher encouraged her to pursue a career in writing.
• Parents should always encourage their children to do their best.

Applied when someone gains the confidence to act more boldly, often as a result of external support or encouragement.

• The success of his first invention emboldened him to try more ambitious projects.
• Her friend's support emboldened her to stand up to the bully.

Refers to making someone or something stronger, both in a physical and metaphorical sense, often applicable to muscles, relationships, or resolve.

• Regular exercise will strengthen your muscles.
• Team-building activities are designed to strengthen the bond between colleagues.