At the A1 level, you should focus on the most basic meaning of 'coraje', which is courage or bravery. You might encounter it in simple stories or fairy tales where a hero needs 'coraje' to face a dragon or a challenge. At this stage, you don't need to worry about the complex grammar of 'dar coraje' (anger). Just remember that 'tener coraje' means 'to have courage'. It is a noun, so you use it like 'dinero' (money) or 'tiempo' (time). You can say 'Él tiene coraje' (He has courage). It is important to notice that it looks like the English word 'courage', which makes it easy to remember. However, remember that you cannot say 'Yo soy coraje'; you must say 'Yo tengo coraje'. Also, keep in mind that it is a masculine word: 'el coraje'. Even at A1, knowing this one word helps you describe characters in books or movies. You can use simple adjectives with it, like 'mucho coraje' (much courage) or 'poco coraje' (little courage). Focus on these simple 'tener' constructions to build your foundation.
At the A2 level, you begin to see the second, very common meaning of 'coraje': anger or frustration. This is especially true if you are learning Spanish from Spain or Mexico. You will hear the phrase 'Me da coraje'. In this context, it doesn't mean 'It gives me courage', but rather 'It makes me angry' or 'It annoys me'. This is a key transition for A2 learners. You should practice using it with simple infinitives. For example: 'Me da coraje perder' (It makes me angry to lose). Notice the structure is just like 'Me gusta' or 'Me encanta'. The thing that makes you angry is the subject. You should also start to recognize 'coraje' as a way to describe someone's spirit in sports or difficult situations. If someone is working very hard against the odds, they are 'echándole coraje' (putting courage into it). This level is about distinguishing between 'having' courage and 'being given' anger by a situation. It's a great word for expressing your feelings in a way that sounds more natural than just saying 'Estoy enfadado' (I am angry).
By B1, you are expected to handle the 'anger' meaning of 'coraje' with more grammatical precision, specifically using the subjunctive mood. When you say 'Me da coraje que...', the verb that follows must be in the subjunctive because you are expressing an emotion about a situation. For example: 'Me da coraje que no me digas la verdad' (It makes me angry that you don't tell me the truth). This is a hallmark of B1 proficiency. You should also start using 'coraje' in more abstract discussions about social issues or personal growth. You might talk about the 'coraje' needed to move to a new country or to change careers. You will also notice the difference between 'coraje' and 'valentía'. While 'valentía' is often a physical act, 'coraje' feels more internal and persistent. You should be able to use it in the past tense as well: 'Me dio mucho coraje que se olvidaran de mi cumpleaños' (It made me very angry that they forgot my birthday). At B1, you are moving beyond simple labels and using 'coraje' to navigate complex emotional landscapes.
At the B2 level, you should be comfortable with the regional nuances of 'coraje'. You understand that in Mexico, 'hacer un coraje' can literally mean to have a physical reaction to anger, sometimes believed to affect the gallbladder or liver. You also recognize 'coraje' in more sophisticated literary or journalistic contexts. For instance, 'el coraje civil' (civil courage) refers to the bravery of citizens standing up against injustice. You should be able to use 'coraje' as a synonym for 'valor' in formal writing, but also know when to use it colloquially to express sharp indignation. You might use phrases like 'sacar coraje de flaqueza' (to draw strength from weakness/thinness), which is an idiomatic way of saying you found strength when you had none left. Your vocabulary should now include related words like 'descorazonar' (to discourage/dishearten) and you should understand how they relate back to the 'heart' (cor) root. You can now use 'coraje' to describe both a hero's resolve and a person's deep-seated resentment with equal ease.
At the C1 level, you are exploring the philosophical and stylistic weight of 'coraje'. You can use it to discuss existential themes, such as 'el coraje de existir' (the courage to exist). You understand the subtle difference between 'coraje', 'denuedo', 'bizarría', and 'arrojamiento'—all words for bravery but with different historical and emotional registers. You can use 'coraje' in complex sentences with multiple clauses, maintaining the correct mood and tense throughout. You also understand the use of 'coraje' in specific dialects, such as its use in some parts of the Andes or the Southern Cone, where it might have slightly different frequencies. You can identify 'coraje' as a motif in Spanish literature, from the 'Romanceros' to modern novels, where it often represents the struggle of the individual against fate. Your use of 'coraje' to mean anger is now nuanced; you can use it to express a specific type of 'indignación' that is both personal and passionate. You are also capable of using the word in professional debates to describe the 'coraje' needed for innovative business decisions or political risks.
At the C2 level, your mastery of 'coraje' is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker. You can appreciate the word's etymological journey from the Latin 'cor' (heart) and how that history informs its modern usage in both the 'bravery' and 'anger' senses. You can use 'coraje' in high-level academic writing, perhaps in a thesis on sociology or psychology, to describe the 'coraje moral' required for ethical leadership. You are also adept at using it in creative writing, employing it as a metaphor for the human spirit's resilience. You understand the most obscure idioms and historical references involving 'coraje'. You can switch effortlessly between the colloquial '¡Qué coraje!' of a frustrated commuter and the profound 'coraje' of a tragic hero in a play by García Lorca. You understand that 'coraje' is not just a word, but a cultural concept that encapsulates a specific Spanish and Latin American approach to emotion—one that is intense, heart-centered, and deeply felt. You can also analyze how the word is used in political rhetoric to mobilize populations or to criticize opponents' lack of 'coraje'.

coraje em 30 segundos

  • Coraje means bravery or the strength to face fear and difficult situations.
  • In daily Spanish, it often means anger, frustration, or being very annoyed.
  • Use 'tener coraje' for bravery and 'dar coraje' for feeling frustrated.
  • It is a masculine noun and is common in sports, news, and drama.

The Spanish word coraje is a fascinating linguistic gem because it carries a dual personality that shifts depending on the context and the geographic location of the speaker. At its core, it is a noun used to describe a powerful internal force. In most formal and literary contexts across the Spanish-speaking world, it translates directly to the English word courage or bravery. It represents the psychological and emotional strength required to face danger, difficulty, or pain without fear. However, there is a secondary, highly common usage in everyday conversation, particularly in Spain and several Latin American countries, where coraje refers to intense irritation, anger, or a sense of being 'fed up.' Understanding this distinction is crucial for any student of the Spanish language.

Positive Connotation
In this sense, it describes the virtue of being brave. It is synonymous with 'valentía'. For example, a firefighter who enters a burning building is said to have 'mucho coraje'. It is an admirable quality that implies a conscious decision to overcome fear for a greater purpose.
Negative Connotation (Anger)
Commonly used in phrases like 'dar coraje'. If someone says 'Me da coraje que no me escuches,' they aren't saying you give them courage; they are saying your lack of listening makes them angry or frustrated. This usage is extremely frequent in colloquial speech.

El soldado mostró un gran coraje al rescatar a sus compañeros bajo el fuego enemigo.

Translation: The soldier showed great courage by rescuing his comrades under enemy fire.

Historically, the word derives from the Old French 'corage', which itself comes from 'coeur' (heart). In the medieval mind, the heart was the seat of all emotions, both the noble ones like bravery and the more volatile ones like anger. This shared etymological root explains why the word evolved to encompass both meanings in Spanish. In a professional setting, you will almost always use it to mean bravery. If you are reading a motivational book or a history text, 'coraje' is the virtue that changes the world. Conversely, if you are sitting in a café in Madrid and your friend is complaining about a parking ticket, they will use 'coraje' to express their annoyance.

Me da mucho coraje perder las llaves justo cuando tengo prisa.

Translation: It makes me very angry to lose my keys exactly when I am in a hurry.
Regional Usage: Spain
In Spain, 'dar coraje' is a staple of daily life. It is slightly softer than 'rabia' but stronger than 'molestia'. It conveys a sense of indignant frustration.

No es cuestión de fuerza, sino de coraje mental para superar este desafío.

¡Qué coraje me dio ver cómo trataban a ese perro!

Literary Context
In poetry and classic literature, 'coraje' is frequently personified as a companion to honor. It is the fuel of the hero's journey, representing an internal fire that cannot be extinguished.

A pesar del miedo, el niño sacó coraje para defender a su hermano menor.

Mastering the use of coraje requires a deep dive into its grammatical structures, particularly how it interacts with different verbs. Because it can mean both 'bravery' and 'anger', the surrounding sentence structure is your primary clue for correct usage. We will examine the two main patterns: the 'Bravery' pattern and the 'Frustration' pattern. By the end of this section, you will be able to navigate these nuances with the confidence of a native speaker.

Pattern 1: Tener + Coraje (Bravery)
In this structure, 'coraje' functions as a possession or a trait. You 'have' courage. It is often modified by adjectives like 'mucho', 'gran', or 'increíble'. Use this when describing someone's character or their reaction to a difficult situation.

Hay que tener mucho coraje para admitir un error en público.

Translation: One must have much courage to admit a mistake in public.

Note that when 'tener coraje' is used in certain regions like Mexico, it can also mean 'to hold a grudge' or 'to feel anger toward someone' (e.g., 'Le tengo coraje a mi jefe'). However, the context of the preposition 'a' (toward) usually clarifies this. If you say 'Tengo coraje' without a target, it usually defaults to bravery. If you say 'Le tengo coraje a Pedro', you are saying you are angry with Pedro.

Pattern 2: Dar + Coraje (Frustration/Anger)
This is an impersonal structure similar to 'gustar'. The thing that causes anger is the subject, and the person feeling it is the indirect object (me, te, le, nos, os, les). This is the most common way to express annoyance in Spain.

Me da coraje que la gente no recicle sus botellas de plástico.

Translation: It makes me angry that people do not recycle their plastic bottles.

Another important verb is 'sacar' (to draw out). 'Sacar coraje' means to find the strength or bravery from within, especially when you are exhausted or about to give up. This is very common in sports commentary. When a team is losing but starts playing with renewed intensity, the commentator might say they are 'sacando coraje'.

El equipo sacó coraje en los últimos minutos y remontó el partido.

Using Adjectives
You can intensify 'coraje' with adjectives like 'puro' (pure), 'verdadero' (true), or 'ciego' (blind). 'Ciego coraje' usually refers to a reckless or furious type of bravery, or a very deep, unthinking anger.

Fue un acto de puro coraje civil protestar contra la injusticia.

Le dio tanto coraje el insulto que no pudo evitar gritar.

In the real world, coraje is ubiquitous, but its meaning shifts dramatically based on the environment. If you are watching a Spanish-language soap opera (telenovela), a gritty crime drama, or a sports broadcast, you will encounter this word constantly. Let's break down where you are likely to hear it and what it signifies in those specific settings.

In Sports Media
Sports commentators love this word. When a tennis player saves five match points or a soccer team plays with ten men and still wins, they are said to have 'coraje'. It implies a mixture of heart, grit, and refusal to lose. You'll hear phrases like 'coraje de campeón' (champion's courage).

¡Qué coraje el de este equipo! Nunca se dan por vencidos.

Translation: What courage this team has! They never give up.

In a domestic or social setting in Spain, the word takes on its more 'annoyed' persona. Imagine a group of friends talking about a common grievance, like a train delay or a politician's lie. One might say, '¡Es que me da un coraje!' This is an exclamation of shared frustration. It’s the verbal equivalent of a sigh of exasperation mixed with a bit of heat.

In Telenovelas and Dramas
Here, 'coraje' is often tied to revenge or deep emotional wounds. A character might say, 'Siento mucho coraje por lo que me hiciste' (I feel a lot of anger for what you did to me). In this context, it is more than just a minor annoyance; it is a profound, burning resentment.

Ese hombre no tiene coraje ni para mirarme a los ojos.

Translation: That man doesn't even have the courage to look me in the eyes.

You will also hear it in news reports about social activists or whistleblowers. 'El coraje de denunciar la corrupción' (The courage to report corruption). In this high-register context, it is purely about bravery and moral fortitude. It is a word that commands respect when used in the singular, positive sense.

Admiro tu coraje por empezar una nueva vida en otro país.

In the Kitchen/Home
If a recipe goes wrong or a glass breaks, you'll hear '¡Qué coraje!' as a common reaction. It's safe for all audiences, unlike stronger swear words, but it effectively communicates that the speaker is very annoyed.

¡Qué coraje! Se me ha quemado la cena.

No pierdas el coraje ahora que estamos tan cerca.

Learning coraje presents a unique challenge because of its dual meaning. English speakers often fall into several traps, either by assuming it only means 'courage' or by misapplying the grammar needed to express 'anger'. Let's look at the most frequent errors so you can avoid them.

Mistake 1: The 'False Cognate' Trap
While 'coraje' DOES mean courage, it is not always the best translation. In many cases where an English speaker would say 'courage', a Spanish speaker might prefer 'valentía'. If you only use 'coraje' to mean bravery, you might miss the nuance of the word being used to mean 'anger' in a conversation, leading to significant misunderstandings.

Incorrect: Estoy coraje porque perdí el bus.
Correct: Me da coraje haber perdido el bus.

Explanation: You cannot 'be' coraje. It is a noun, not an adjective. You must use 'dar coraje' or 'sentir coraje'.

A very common mistake is trying to use 'coraje' as an adjective like 'courageous'. In Spanish, the adjective is 'valiente'. You cannot say 'Él es muy coraje'. You must say 'Él tiene mucho coraje' or 'Él es muy valiente'. This is a classic error for beginners who are used to the flexibility of English adjectives.

Mistake 2: Misusing 'Le tengo coraje'
In Latin America, 'tenerle coraje a alguien' means to be angry with someone or to hold a grudge. English speakers often hear 'tener coraje' and think it means 'to be brave for someone'. This leads to confusion in interpersonal dynamics. If you say 'Le tengo coraje a mi hermano', you are saying you are mad at him, not that you are being brave for his sake.

Confusing: Le tengo coraje a esa situación.
Clearer: Esa situación me da coraje.

Finally, watch your gender. 'Coraje' is masculine. English speakers sometimes associate emotions with feminine nouns (like 'la alegría', 'la tristeza'), but 'el coraje' is firmly masculine. Using 'la coraje' is a marker of a non-native speaker and can occasionally make the sentence hard to parse in fast conversation.

Incorrect: Mostró una coraje increíble.
Correct: Mostró un coraje increíble.

Mistake 3: Forgetting the Subjunctive
When using 'me da coraje que...', you are expressing a feeling or an emotional reaction to a fact. This triggers the subjunctive mood in the following verb. Forgetting this is a common B1/B2 level mistake.

Incorrect: Me da coraje que él *llega* tarde.
Correct: Me da coraje que él llegue tarde.

¡No me des corajes!

Note: In some regions, the plural 'corajes' is used to mean 'troubles' or 'fits of anger'.

Because coraje is a 'two-headed' word, you have two sets of alternatives depending on whether you want to express bravery or anger. Choosing the right synonym can make your Spanish sound more precise and sophisticated. Let's compare 'coraje' with its closest relatives.

Coraje vs. Valentía (Bravery)
'Valentía' is the most direct synonym for bravery. While 'coraje' often implies an internal, 'heart-felt' fire or a gut-level reaction, 'valentía' is the general noun for the quality of being brave. You can use them interchangeably in most contexts, but 'coraje' sounds slightly more intense and emotional.
Coraje vs. Valor (Worth/Courage)
'Valor' also means courage, but it is more formal and can also mean 'value' or 'worth'. In military or official contexts, 'valor' is preferred. 'Coraje' is more personal.

Demostró una valentía excepcional en el campo de batalla.

Note: Here 'valentía' is a perfect substitute for 'coraje'.

Now let's look at the 'anger' side of the word. If 'coraje' isn't quite the right level of frustration, you might choose one of these:

Coraje vs. Rabia (Rage)
'Rabia' is much stronger. If 'coraje' is being annoyed because you missed your train, 'rabia' is being furious because someone stole your car. 'Rabia' implies a loss of control, whereas 'coraje' is often a more contained, indignant feeling.
Coraje vs. Enfado (Anger/Annoyance)
'Enfado' is the standard word for anger in Spain. It is more neutral. 'Coraje' is more expressive and implies that the situation is particularly 'galling' or unfair.

Siento mucha rabia por la injusticia social.

Me produce indignación que mientan así.

'Indignación' is a more formal, 'higher-class' version of the anger meaning of 'coraje'.
Coraje vs. Audacia (Audacity)
'Audacia' implies a certain level of risk-taking or boldness that 'coraje' might not. 'Coraje' is about the strength to face a threat; 'audacia' is about the daring to try something new or shocking.

Tuvo la audacia de pedir un aumento el primer día.

A veces, el silencio requiere más coraje que las palabras.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The word originally referred to the heart as the center of all feelings. This is why it can mean both 'bravery' (a strong heart) and 'anger' (a heated heart).

Guia de pronúncia

UK /koˈɾaxe/
US /koʊˈɾɑːheɪ/
The stress is on the second syllable 'ra'.
Rima com
viaje mensaje paisaje garaje equipaje traje salvaje homenaje
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing the 'j' like an English 'j' (as in 'jump'). It should be like the 'h' in 'hot' but scratchier.
  • Using an English 'r' sound instead of a Spanish tap.
  • Stressing the first syllable instead of the second.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 2/5

Easy to recognize because it looks like 'courage'.

Escrita 4/5

Hard because of the 'dar coraje que + subjunctive' rule.

Expressão oral 3/5

The 'j' (x) sound and the dual meaning take practice.

Audição 3/5

Must use context to decide if the speaker is brave or mad.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

corazón miedo dar tener que

Aprenda a seguir

valentía rabia indignación enfado arriesgar

Avançado

denuedo bizarría pusilanimidad temeridad desidia

Gramática essencial

Verbs of Emotion + Subjunctive

Me da coraje que no *estés* aquí.

Nouns as Objects of 'Dar'

Me da coraje (It gives me anger).

Gender of Nouns ending in -aje

El coraje, el viaje, el mensaje (usually masculine).

Preposition 'a' with 'tener coraje' (Grudge)

Le tengo coraje *a* mi ex.

Infinitive with same subject in emotion verbs

Me da coraje *llegar* tarde (I am the one arriving late).

Exemplos por nível

1

El niño tiene mucho coraje.

The boy has a lot of courage.

Uses 'tener' to express a quality.

2

Necesitas coraje para hablar.

You need courage to speak.

Simple present tense with an infinitive.

3

Ella es una mujer de coraje.

She is a woman of courage.

Prepositional phrase 'de coraje' acting as an adjective.

4

El perro mostró su coraje.

The dog showed its courage.

Simple past tense (pretérito).

5

No tengo coraje hoy.

I don't have courage today.

Negative sentence with 'tener'.

6

El coraje es bueno.

Courage is good.

Basic subject-verb-adjective structure.

7

Tu coraje me ayuda.

Your courage helps me.

Possessive adjective 'tu' with a noun.

8

Busco un hombre con coraje.

I am looking for a man with courage.

Use of the preposition 'con'.

1

Me da coraje perder mis llaves.

It makes me angry to lose my keys.

Structure 'dar coraje' + infinitive.

2

¡Qué coraje me dio ayer!

How angry I got yesterday!

Exclamatory sentence in the past tense.

3

Le da coraje que llegues tarde.

It makes him/her angry that you arrive late.

Indirect object 'le' + subjunctive 'llegues'.

4

Tengo coraje por el examen.

I am angry about the exam.

'Tener coraje' meaning anger/frustration.

5

No me des coraje, por favor.

Don't make me angry, please.

Negative imperative (command).

6

Él sacó coraje para terminar.

He found the courage to finish.

Idiomatic use of 'sacar coraje'.

7

Es una película de mucho coraje.

It is a movie with a lot of courage.

Noun phrase used as a descriptor.

8

¿Te da coraje el ruido?

Does the noise make you angry?

Interrogative with 'dar coraje'.

1

Me da coraje que no me hayas llamado.

It makes me angry that you haven't called me.

Present perfect subjunctive after 'me da coraje que'.

2

Si tuviera más coraje, se lo diría.

If I had more courage, I would tell him.

Second conditional with imperfect subjunctive.

3

A pesar de su miedo, actuó con coraje.

Despite his fear, he acted with courage.

Concessive clause 'a pesar de'.

4

Me dio un coraje tremendo ver eso.

It gave me a tremendous fit of anger to see that.

Use of 'un coraje' as a specific instance of anger.

5

Espero que tengas el coraje de ir.

I hope you have the courage to go.

Subjunctive 'tengas' after a verb of hope.

6

Le tengo coraje a mi vecino por el ruido.

I hold a grudge against my neighbor for the noise.

'Tener coraje a alguien' (regional: anger toward someone).

7

Hay que sacar coraje de donde sea.

One must find courage from wherever.

Impersonal 'hay que' + 'de donde sea'.

8

Me da coraje no haber estudiado más.

It makes me angry not to have studied more.

Perfect infinitive 'haber estudiado'.

1

El coraje civil es vital para la democracia.

Civil courage is vital for democracy.

Abstract noun phrase 'coraje civil'.

2

Me dio tal coraje que me puse a gritar.

I got so angry that I started shouting.

Consecutive clause 'tal... que'.

3

Sacó coraje de flaqueza para ganar.

He drew strength from weakness to win.

Idiom 'sacar coraje de flaqueza'.

4

No es valentía, es puro coraje ciego.

It's not bravery, it's pure blind courage/anger.

Adjective 'ciego' modifying 'coraje'.

5

Me da coraje que se rían de los demás.

It makes me angry that they laugh at others.

Subjunctive 'se rían' expressing indignation.

6

Aquel coraje que mostró fue inolvidable.

That courage he showed was unforgettable.

Demonstrative adjective 'aquel' for distant past.

7

Le dio un coraje y se enfermó.

He had a fit of anger and got sick.

Regional use (Mexico) of 'dar un coraje' as a cause of illness.

8

Me da coraje que no se valore mi trabajo.

It makes me angry that my work isn't valued.

Passive 'se valore' in the subjunctive.

1

Su coraje rayaba en la temeridad.

His courage bordered on recklessness.

Verb 'rayar en' (to border on).

2

Me da coraje que la hipocresía sea la norma.

It makes me angry that hypocrisy is the norm.

Abstract noun 'hipocresía' in a subjunctive clause.

3

El autor describe el coraje como una llama interna.

The author describes courage as an internal flame.

Metaphorical use in literary analysis.

4

No me dio coraje, sino una profunda tristeza.

It didn't make me angry, but rather a deep sadness.

Contrast 'no... sino' (not... but rather).

5

Demostró coraje al impugnar la sentencia.

He showed courage by challenging the sentence.

Gerund phrase 'al impugnar'.

6

¡Qué coraje que no hayamos podido evitarlo!

How frustrating that we haven't been able to avoid it!

Exclamatory with past perfect subjunctive.

7

El coraje es el motor de los cambios sociales.

Courage is the motor of social changes.

Metaphorical noun phrase as subject.

8

Me da coraje que se desperdicie tanto talento.

It makes me angry that so much talent is wasted.

Impersonal 'se' in a subjunctive clause.

1

El coraje de la protagonista es el eje de la trama.

The protagonist's courage is the axis of the plot.

Literary analysis terminology.

2

Me da un coraje infinito la desidia institucional.

Institutional apathy makes me infinitely angry.

High-level vocabulary like 'desidia' and 'institucional'.

3

Aquel acto de coraje resonó en toda la nación.

That act of courage resonated throughout the nation.

Verb 'resonar' used figuratively.

4

Resulta paradójico que su coraje fuera su perdición.

It's paradoxical that his courage was his downfall.

Complex structure 'Resulta... que' + subjunctive.

5

Me da coraje que se soslaye la verdad histórica.

It makes me angry that historical truth is bypassed.

Sophisticated verb 'soslayar'.

6

Su coraje es fruto de una convicción inquebrantable.

His courage is the fruit of an unbreakable conviction.

Metaphorical 'fruto de'.

7

¡Qué coraje me da que no seamos capaces de dialogar!

How frustrating it is that we aren't capable of dialogue!

Complex emotional exclamation with subjunctive.

8

El coraje no es la ausencia de miedo, sino su dominio.

Courage is not the absence of fear, but its mastery.

Philosophical definition using 'no... sino'.

Colocações comuns

tener coraje
dar coraje
sacar coraje
mucho coraje
puro coraje
coraje civil
hacer un coraje
armarse de coraje
perder el coraje
sentir coraje

Frases Comuns

¡Qué coraje!

— How annoying! Used to express sudden frustration.

¡Qué coraje! He perdido el tren.

Me da un coraje...

— It really annoys me when... Used to start a complaint.

Me da un coraje que mientan.

Con coraje

— With bravery or with great effort and spirit.

Jugaron con coraje hasta el final.

Tenerle coraje a alguien

— To hold a grudge or be angry with someone (Latin America).

Le tengo coraje desde que me engañó.

Lleno de coraje

— Full of bravery or full of anger.

Regresó lleno de coraje para ganar.

Sin coraje

— Without bravery or spiritless.

Se rindió sin coraje.

Por coraje

— Out of spite or out of bravery.

Lo hizo por coraje, para demostrar que podía.

Un acto de coraje

— A brave act.

Fue un acto de coraje salvar al gato.

Falta de coraje

— Lack of courage.

Su falta de coraje fue decepcionante.

Coraje de sobra

— More than enough courage.

A ella le sobra coraje para este trabajo.

Frequentemente confundido com

coraje vs corajudo

Often mistaken for 'brave', but usually means 'irascible' or 'prone to anger'.

coraje vs valor

Can mean 'value' or 'courage'; 'coraje' is more emotional.

coraje vs corazón

The root word; used in idioms but not a synonym for bravery itself.

Expressões idiomáticas

"Sacar coraje de flaqueza"

— To find strength or courage when you are at your weakest.

Estaba agotado, pero sacó coraje de flaqueza para terminar la maratón.

neutral
"Hacer de tripas corazón"

— To pluck up courage or to hide one's fear/disgust to get something done.

Tuvo que hacer de tripas corazón para entrar en la cueva.

informal
"Echarle coraje"

— To put effort, heart, and bravery into something.

Hay que echarle coraje a la vida.

informal
"Tener coraje para regalar"

— To have an immense amount of courage.

Ese bombero tiene coraje para regalar.

informal
"Morirse de coraje"

— To be extremely angry or frustrated.

Me muero de coraje cuando veo tanta injusticia.

informal
"Dar el coraje"

— To have a fit of anger (Mexico).

Le dio el coraje y rompió el plato.

slang
"Coraje de perro"

— A very intense, persistent anger or a tough bravery.

Tiene un coraje de perro cuando se propone algo.

informal
"No tener coraje ni para..."

— To not even have the courage to do a simple thing.

No tiene coraje ni para pedir perdón.

neutral
"Hervirle la sangre de coraje"

— To have one's blood boil with anger.

Me hervía la sangre de coraje al oír sus mentiras.

informal
"Armarse de valor/coraje"

— To gather one's courage.

Se armó de coraje y subió al escenario.

neutral

Fácil de confundir

coraje vs valentía

Both mean bravery.

Valentía is the quality; coraje is the internal spirit/fire. Coraje also means anger.

Su valentía fue premiada; su coraje le permitió seguir adelante.

coraje vs rabia

Both mean anger.

Rabia is more intense, almost uncontrollable. Coraje is more about indignation or annoyance.

Siento rabia por el robo; me da coraje que no haya policías.

coraje vs enfado

Both mean anger.

Enfado is a neutral state of being mad. Coraje implies a specific feeling of 'how dare they' or 'how annoying'.

Tengo un enfado con ella; me da coraje que no me pida perdón.

coraje vs audacia

Both involve risk.

Audacia is boldness/daring. Coraje is the strength to face fear.

Tuvo la audacia de entrar; tuvo el coraje de quedarse.

coraje vs temeridad

Both involve danger.

Temeridad is reckless bravery without thinking. Coraje is conscious bravery.

Saltar sin cuerda es una temeridad, no coraje.

Padrões de frases

A1

Sujeto + tener + coraje.

El héroe tiene coraje.

A2

Me da coraje + infinitivo.

Me da coraje perder.

B1

Me da coraje que + subjuntivo presente.

Me da coraje que mientas.

B2

Sacar coraje de + sustantivo.

Sacó coraje de su interior.

C1

Mostró un coraje rayando en + sustantivo.

Mostró un coraje rayando en la locura.

C2

Resulta + adjetivo + que + sujeto + tenga + coraje.

Resulta admirable que ella tenga tanto coraje.

B1

Tener el coraje de + infinitivo.

Tuvo el coraje de decir la verdad.

A2

¡Qué + coraje!

¡Qué coraje!

Família de palavras

Substantivos

coraje
corajina (fit of anger)

Verbos

acorajar (to encourage - rare)
descorazonar (to discourage)

Adjetivos

corajudo (angry/brave)
valiente (brave)
corajoso (brave - less common)

Relacionado

corazón
valor
valentía
ira
enojo

Como usar

frequency

Very high in both Spain and Latin America, though the 'anger' meaning is slightly more dominant in colloquial Spain.

Erros comuns
  • Using 'coraje' as an adjective (e.g., 'Él es coraje'). Él tiene coraje / Él es valiente.

    Coraje is a noun, not an adjective. You must use 'tener' or a different word entirely for the adjective form.

  • Using 'la coraje'. El coraje.

    Coraje is a masculine noun. Words ending in -aje in Spanish are almost always masculine.

  • Forgetting the subjunctive (e.g., 'Me da coraje que él *está* aquí'). Me da coraje que él *esté* aquí.

    Expressions of emotion like 'me da coraje que' always require the subjunctive mood in the following clause.

  • Thinking 'coraje' only means bravery. Understand both 'bravery' and 'anger' meanings.

    Assuming only one meaning will lead to confusion in daily conversation where 'anger' is more common.

  • Using 'corajudo' to mean 'brave' in a positive way. Use 'valiente' or 'con mucho coraje'.

    'Corajudo' often has a negative connotation of someone who is easily angered or bad-tempered.

Dicas

Use 'Dar Coraje' for Complaints

If you want to complain about something in a natural way in Spain, start with 'Me da un coraje que...'. It sounds much more native than 'No me gusta que...'.

Watch the Subjunctive

Remember that 'Me da coraje que' is an emotional trigger. Always use the subjunctive for the following verb to maintain grammatical accuracy at an intermediate level.

Coraje vs. Valiente

Don't forget that 'coraje' is the noun and 'valiente' is the adjective. You can't say 'un hombre coraje', you say 'un hombre valiente' or 'un hombre con coraje'.

Mexican 'Corajes'

In Mexico, if someone says they 'hicieron un coraje', they might literally feel sick afterward. It's a very strong emotional event in that cultural context.

The Heart Connection

Associate 'coraje' with 'corazón'. Both start with 'cor-'. Bravery and anger both come from the heart in the Spanish linguistic world.

Emphasis

When you say '¡Qué coraje!', emphasize the 'ra' syllable and make the 'j' sound distinct to convey your frustration effectively.

Context Clues

If the topic is a hero or a war, it's bravery. If the topic is a broken car or a lie, it's anger. Context is your best friend with this word.

Formal Writing

In formal essays, prefer 'valentía' or 'valor' for bravery unless you want to emphasize the passionate, internal nature of the courage.

Flaqueza

Learn the phrase 'sacar coraje de flaqueza'. It's a very high-level idiom that will impress native speakers when used correctly in a tough situation.

Drama and Soap Operas

Watch telenovelas to hear 'coraje' used in the sense of deep resentment. It's a great way to see the word used in high-emotion scenarios.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of 'Courage' (it looks similar) but remember that a 'Core' (heart) of fire can be 'Bravery' or 'Anger'.

Associação visual

Imagine a bright red heart. If it's glowing steadily, it's 'coraje' (bravery). If it's exploding with sparks, it's 'coraje' (anger).

Word Web

Corazón Valentía Rabia Valor Enfado Bravery Anger Heart

Desafio

Try to use 'coraje' in two sentences today: one where you describe a brave person, and one where something small annoys you.

Origem da palavra

Derived from the Old French word 'corage', which comes from 'coeur' (heart). This traces back to the Latin 'cor'.

Significado original: The seat of emotions, specifically the strength of the heart.

Romance (Latin -> French -> Spanish).

Contexto cultural

Be careful using 'corajudo' as it can be an insult (meaning someone is a hothead).

English speakers often use 'courage' only positively. Using 'coraje' for anger is a major shift in thinking.

The song 'Coraje' by various Latin artists often deals with heartbreak and anger. Historical figures like Simón Bolívar are often described as having 'mucho coraje'. Spanish cinema often uses '¡Qué coraje!' in domestic comedies.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Sports and Competition

  • Echarle coraje
  • Coraje de campeón
  • Sacar coraje
  • Jugar con coraje

Personal Frustrations

  • ¡Qué coraje!
  • Me da un coraje...
  • Me muero de coraje
  • Sentir coraje

Moral and Social Issues

  • Coraje civil
  • Tener el coraje de hablar
  • Acto de coraje
  • Falta de coraje

Relationships (Latin America)

  • Tenerle coraje a alguien
  • Hacer un coraje
  • Traer coraje
  • Llenarse de coraje

Overcoming Obstacles

  • Sacar coraje de flaqueza
  • Armarse de coraje
  • No perder el coraje
  • Mucho coraje

Iniciadores de conversa

"¿Qué es lo que más coraje te da de vivir en una ciudad grande?"

"¿Alguna vez has tenido que sacar coraje de flaqueza para terminar algo?"

"¿Crees que se necesita más coraje para decir la verdad o para callar?"

"¿Qué te da más coraje: la mentira o la impuntualidad?"

"¿Quién es la persona con más coraje que conoces en tu vida?"

Temas para diário

Describe una situación reciente que te dio mucho coraje y explica por qué te sentiste así.

Escribe sobre un momento de tu vida en el que mostraste un gran coraje para superar un miedo.

¿Qué situaciones sociales te dan coraje y qué crees que se podría hacer para cambiarlas?

Reflexiona sobre la frase 'el coraje no es la ausencia de miedo'. ¿Qué significa para ti?

Si pudieras tener el coraje de cambiar una sola cosa en tu vida hoy, ¿qué sería?

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

No, it still means bravery in formal or literary contexts, but in everyday speech, 'dar coraje' is almost always used to mean anger or frustration. For example, 'Me da coraje que no funcione' means 'It annoys me that it doesn't work'.

It is always masculine: 'el coraje'. Even when it means anger, you say 'el coraje' or 'mucho coraje'. Example: 'Me dio un coraje tremendo'.

No. 'Coraje' is a noun. To say you are angry, you use 'Tengo coraje' (common in Latin America) or 'Me da coraje' (common in Spain). You can also use the adjective 'corajudo', but be careful as it can be negative.

They are very similar. 'Valentía' is the general term for bravery. 'Coraje' is more about the internal force or 'heart' behind the bravery. 'Coraje' also has the second meaning of 'anger', which 'valentía' does not have.

When you use the phrase 'Me da coraje que...', the next verb must be in the subjunctive because you are expressing an emotion. Example: 'Me da coraje que tú no *vengas*' (It annoys me that you aren't coming).

Not at all. It is a very safe and common way to express frustration. It is much milder than using swear words (palabrotas), making it appropriate for most social situations.

It is a popular idiom meaning 'to find strength when you are weak'. It is used when someone is exhausted or in a very bad situation but somehow finds the spirit to keep going.

No, in many Latin American countries, it means you are angry with them or hold a grudge. Example: 'Le tengo coraje a mi hermano' means 'I am mad at my brother'.

It comes from the Latin 'cor' (heart). In the past, people believed the heart was the source of all strong emotions, including both bravery and anger.

Yes, 'corajes' is often used, especially in Mexico, to refer to multiple instances of anger or troubles. Example: 'No me hagas pasar corajes' (Don't make me go through these fits of anger).

Teste-se 200 perguntas

writing

Write a sentence using 'coraje' to mean bravery.

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Write a sentence using 'me da coraje' + an infinitive.

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Write a sentence using 'me da coraje que' + subjunctive.

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writing

Translate: 'It takes courage to change.'

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writing

Use the idiom 'sacar coraje de flaqueza' in a sentence.

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writing

Write a short dialogue (2 lines) expressing frustration using 'coraje'.

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writing

Describe a brave person you know using the word 'coraje'.

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writing

Translate: 'I hold a grudge against him.' (using coraje)

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writing

Write a sentence about 'coraje civil'.

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Explain why 'coraje' is masculine.

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writing

Translate: 'What courage he showed!'

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writing

Use 'sentir coraje' in a sentence.

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Write a sentence about a sports team using 'coraje'.

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writing

Translate: 'It makes me angry that it's raining.'

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writing

Write a sentence with 'armarse de coraje'.

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writing

Describe a historical event using 'coraje'.

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writing

Translate: 'Don't lose your courage.'

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writing

Write a sentence using 'corajudo'.

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writing

Use 'coraje' in a formal academic context.

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writing

Translate: 'His courage borders on madness.'

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speaking

Pronounce 'coraje' focusing on the 'j' sound.

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speaking

Say 'It makes me angry' in Spanish using 'coraje'.

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speaking

Say 'He has a lot of courage' in Spanish.

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Exclaim 'How annoying!' using 'coraje'.

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speaking

Say 'I hope you have courage' using the subjunctive.

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Use 'sacar coraje' in a short sentence.

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Say 'I am mad at you' (Latin America style).

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speaking

Pronounce the plural 'corajes'.

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speaking

Say 'It makes me angry that you lie' using the subjunctive.

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speaking

Say 'With much courage' in Spanish.

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speaking

Tell a friend 'Don't give up, have courage'.

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speaking

Use 'puro coraje' in a sentence about a game.

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speaking

Say 'I feel courage' in Spanish.

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speaking

Pronounce 'sacar coraje de flaqueza'.

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speaking

Say 'Civil courage' in Spanish.

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Say 'A brave act' in Spanish.

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Say 'I don't have courage today'.

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Say 'What courage!' with an angry tone.

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Say 'It borders on courage'.

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Say 'Unbreakable courage'.

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listening

Listen to 'Me da coraje'. Is the person happy or annoyed?

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listening

Listen to 'Él tiene coraje'. Is he a coward?

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listening

Listen to '¡Qué coraje!'. Is this a positive or negative reaction usually?

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listening

Identify the word: /koˈɾaxe/.

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listening

Listen to 'Me da coraje que no vengas'. What mood is 'vengas'?

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listening

Listen to 'Sacó coraje de flaqueza'. Is the person strong or finding strength?

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listening

Listen to 'Le tengo coraje'. Is it directed at a person or an object?

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Listen to 'Un acto de coraje'. Does this sound formal or informal?

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listening

Does 'coraje' sound like 'courage' in English?

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listening

Listen to 'corajudo'. Is the tone usually praising or critical?

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Listen for the stress: co-RA-je. Which syllable is it on?

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listening

Listen to 'No me des corajes'. Is the speaker asking for bravery or asking not to be annoyed?

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listening

Listen to 'Coraje moral'. What domain is this likely from?

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listening

Listen to 'Hervir la sangre de coraje'. Is the person a little mad or very mad?

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listening

Listen to 'Sin un ápice de coraje'. Does the person have courage?

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/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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