mettlesome
/'metld/ Cách viết khác : (mettlesome) /'metlsəm/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Having or showing a spirited, courageous, and determined nature: Describes a person or animal that is full of energy, bravery, and a strong will, often eager to face challenges.
- Full of vigor and enthusiasm: Characterized by liveliness, zeal, and a passionate approach to activities.
Usage
- Describing a person's character: Used to praise someone's brave and energetic disposition.
- The mettlesome young officer led the charge without hesitation.
- Describing an animal's temperament: Often used for horses or other animals showing spirit and courage.
- She preferred a mettlesome horse for the competition, one that wouldn't shy from a challenge.
Advanced Usage
- In literary or formal contexts: "Mettlesome" is more common in written English, particularly in literature, historical accounts, or formal descriptions, than in everyday conversation.
- The biography portrayed the explorer as a mettlesome adventurer who thrived in the unknown.
Variants and Related Words
- Mettle (noun): The inherent quality of a person's character, especially their spirit, courage, and resilience.
- The difficult situation tested his mettle.
- Mettled (adjective): An archaic form meaning having mettle; spirited. (Note: This form is rarely used in modern English.)
Synonyms
- Spirited: Full of energy, enthusiasm, and determination.
- Courageous: Not deterred by danger or pain; brave.
- Plucky: Having or showing determined courage in the face of difficulties.
- Intrepid: Fearless; adventurous.
- Gritty: Showing courage and resolve.
Antonyms
- Timid: Showing a lack of courage or confidence; easily frightened.
- Cowardly: Lacking courage.
- Spiritless: Lacking energy, enthusiasm, or determination.
Idioms and Phrases
- To show one's mettle: To demonstrate one's strength of character and courage, especially when facing a challenge. (This idiom uses the related noun "mettle").
- The crisis was an opportunity for the new leader to show her mettle.
Adjective
- willing to face danger
- having a proud and unbroken spirit