How to Memorize

mettle - courage

Analysis

To have ‘mettle’ is to have the bravery and resolve to compete or do something even in the most difficult of circumstances. The word implies somebody solid with a strength of character and mind that allows them to display fortitude in the face of adversity. As such, it has highly positive connotations.

Example(s)

1. The business is in a perilous financial situation at the moment. Resolving it is really going to be a test of our mettle.

2. I never doubted that Helen was brave, but the way she has battled her illness has proven her to be even more mettlesome than I thought.

3. Instead of viewing the crisis as a disaster, I am looking upon it as a chance to prove my mettle. To myself, if nobody else.