What is another word for courageous
Find antonyms of words, enhance your English language skills
courageous
/ˈkʌrɪdʒəs/
Showing bravery and willingness to face fear, danger, or difficulty.
Antonyms of courageous
Adjectives
Strongest matches:
- cowardly
- fearful
- afraid
- timid
- spineless
- craven
Weak matches:
- hesitant
- cautious
- insecure
- shy
Synonyms
brave, valiant, fearless, intrepid, bold, daring, gallant, heroic, plucky, gutsy, audacious, dauntless, stout-hearted, lionhearted, unflinching, unafraid, adventurous, mettlesome
Usage examples:
1. The firefighter was incredibly courageous, rushing into the burning building without hesitation.
2. It was a courageous decision to stand up to the bullies and defend the younger student.
3. Despite her fear, she took a courageous step forward and spoke out against injustice.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the opposite of courageous?
The opposite of courageous is cowardly. Cowardly describes someone who lacks courage or is excessively afraid of danger or pain.
Can 'timid' be considered an antonym for courageous?
Yes, 'timid' can be considered an antonym for courageous. While 'cowardly' emphasizes the lack of bravery, 'timid' suggests a natural or habitual disposition towards fearfulness and caution, making it a suitable, albeit slightly softer, opposite to courageous.
Is there a difference between 'fearful' and 'cowardly' as antonyms of courageous?
Yes, there is a difference. 'Fearful' describes someone who is feeling fear, which is a natural emotion, and doesn't necessarily imply a lack of courage. 'Cowardly,' on the other hand, specifically denotes a lack of bravery or an unwillingness to face danger or difficulty, making it a more direct antonym of courageous.
Can 'faint-hearted' be used interchangeably with 'cowardly' as an antonym for courageous?
'Faint-hearted' can be used as an antonym for courageous, but it carries a slightly different nuance. Faint-hearted implies a lack of boldness or resolution due to fear or timidity. While it can be used interchangeably with 'cowardly' in many contexts, it is often less harsh and focuses more on the emotional state of being easily discouraged rather than an outright lack of courage.