courageous
6 synonyms and 2 antonyms for courageous, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Brave; willing to face danger, pain, or difficulty.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use courageous
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
a courageous decision
courageous act
courageous leader
Etymology
From Old French corageus, built from corage ("courage") plus the adjective ending -eus.
Full origin of courageous →Frequently asked questions
What does “courageous” mean?
The word “courageous” means brave; willing to face danger, pain, or difficulty. In plain terms, showing courage; brave.
How do you pronounce “courageous”?
“Courageous” is pronounced kuh-RAYD-zhuhs (/kəˈɹeɪd͡ʒəs/ in IPA).
How do you use “courageous” in a sentence?
Here is “courageous” used in a sentence: “The courageous firefighter ran back into the building to save the child.”
What part of speech is “courageous”?
“Courageous” is an adjective.
Where does the word “courageous” come from?
The word “courageous” comes from Old French. From Old French corageus, built from corage ("courage") plus the adjective ending -eus.
Is “courageous” a common word?
“Courageous” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between "courageous" and "brave"?
"Courageous" and "brave" are close synonyms, both describing willingness to face danger, pain, or difficulty, though "courageous" often carries a slightly more formal or elevated tone, fitting for describing significant acts of bravery. "Brave" is more common in everyday, casual speech.
Is "courageous" used to describe actions or only people?
"Courageous" can describe both people and their actions, such as a "courageous decision" or a "courageous soldier." In either case, it conveys willingness to face danger, pain, or difficulty.
What is the noun form of "courageous"?
The noun form of "courageous" is "courage," referring to the quality of being willing to face danger, pain, or difficulty. The adverb form is "courageously," describing how an action is carried out.
