balls of steel: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘balls of steel’ mean?
The idiom *balls of steel* means to have extreme courage, fearlessness or resilience in the face of challenges or danger.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "nerves of steel" means being exceptionally calm and composed, especially in stressful or dangerous situations.
The idiom "grow some balls" means to have courage or become more assertive when facing a challenge or making a decision.
The idiom "Evel Knievel" refers to a daring and fearless person, named after the famous American stunt performer Robert "Evel" Knievel. It implies someone who takes bold risks or attempts dangerous feats.
The idiom "Dunkirk spirit" refers to the bravery, resilience, and unity exhibited by people in times of crisis or adversity, particularly in the face of overwhelming odds, like the evacuation of Dunkirk during World War II.
The idiom "drop the ball" means to make a mistake or fail to do something that was expected or required. It suggests a failure to meet responsibilities or fulfill obligations. The phrase is often used in a professional or organizational context.
The idiom "do-or-die" means that a situation requires full commitment and determination. It suggests that failure is not an option and that one must give their utmost effort to succeed.
The idiom "do it tough" means to face or endure a difficult or challenging situation with determination and resilience.
The idiom "dog's chance" refers to having very little or no possibility of success or survival in a given situation.
The idiom "dodge a bullet" means to narrowly escape a dangerous or undesirable situation or consequence.
The idiom "dig deep" means to make a great effort, especially in terms of mental or physical strength, to overcome a challenge or difficulty.
Unleashing Courage
The idioms "nerves of steel" and "grow some balls" are related to the idiom "balls of steel" in the sense that they all convey a similar message of courage, bravery, and fearlessness.
When someone is said to have "nerves of steel," it means that they have an exceptional ability to remain calm and composed in extremely intense or challenging situations. Just like "balls of steel," this idiom emphasizes the individual's unwavering resolve and ability to face adversity without succumbing to fear or panic.
The idiom "grow some balls" is a bit more colloquial and direct in its language, but it also carries a similar meaning. When someone tells another person to "grow some balls," they are essentially urging them to be brave, take risks, and face their fears head-on. It is a way of encouraging someone to step out of their comfort zone and embrace challenges with confidence and determination.
All three idioms reinforce the importance of courage and fearlessness in navigating life's obstacles. They all highlight the idea that overcoming challenges requires a certain level of bravery and resilience, whether it be in the face of physical danger, emotional turmoil, or professional pressure.
While each idiom may have its own distinct origins and associations, they all tap into a shared understanding of what it means to exhibit exceptional courage and strength in the face of adversity.
It's important to note that idioms are a reflection of cultural and linguistic conventions, and their meanings and connotations can vary depending on the context and the audience. When using these idioms, it is always helpful to consider the appropriateness of the language and the intended impact on the listener or reader.
To summarize, the idioms "balls of steel," "nerves of steel," and "grow some balls" are all related idiomatic expressions that convey a sense of courage, fearlessness, and resilience. While they may differ in their origins and degrees of formality, they all serve to emphasize the importance of bravery and determination in the face of challenges.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "balls of steel" can be used in a sentence:
1. He jumped off the roof without hesitating, showing that he had balls of steel.
2. Despite facing numerous challenges, she remained determined and resilient, displaying balls of steel.
3. The politician fearlessly confronted his opponents during the debate, proving that he had balls of steel.
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