derring-do
/'deriɳ'du:/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: - Brave and heroic deeds or actions: "Derring-do" refers to acts of great courage, boldness, or adventurous daring, often with a romantic or swashbuckling quality.
Usage
"Derring-do" is a literary and somewhat old-fashioned term used to describe actions that are exceptionally brave, adventurous, or recklessly heroic. It often evokes the spirit of knights, adventurers, or action heroes.
Examples
- The novel is filled with tales of derring-do on the high seas.
- His reputation was built on acts of incredible derring-do.
- The film celebrates the derring-do of early aviators.
Advanced Usage
- "Feats of derring-do": This is a common collocation emphasizing specific acts of bravery.
- The biography recounted his many feats of derring-do.
Variants and Related Words
- Daring (noun/adj): The quality of being adventurous or brave. This is a more common modern synonym.
- His daring was admired by all.
Synonyms
- Heroism: Great bravery.
- Gallantry: Courageous behavior, especially in battle.
- Audacity: A willingness to take bold risks.
- Boldness: The quality of being fearless and adventurous.
Antonyms
- Cowardice: Lack of bravery.
- Timidity: The state of being easily frightened.
Notes
"Derring-do" is an interesting word with a history of mistaken etymology. It originated from a misinterpretation of the Middle English phrase "dorryng do," meaning "daring to do." It is now used as a fixed noun and is considered somewhat archaic or humorous in modern contexts, often found in adventure stories or used for stylistic effect.
Noun
- brave and heroic feats