sois courageux
The English phrase "be brave" can be translated into French as sois courageux.
This phrase is an encouraging command used to tell someone to show courage in a difficult situation. While you can say sois brave, using courageux is often considered more precise for moral courage. In many encouraging contexts, a French speaker might more naturally say sois fort (be strong) or ne baisse pas les bras (don't give up). You can also say sois vraiment courageux/courageuse to mean "be truly brave".
What does it mean word for word?
sois is the imperative (command) form of the verb être (to be) for the second person singular.
Which one should you use?
sois courageux is a literal translation.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective changes to the feminine form courageuse if you are speaking to a woman. Use soyez courageux instead of sois courageux when addressing more than one person or using the formal vous form.
Did you know?
- In French, the word brave often describes someone who is well-behaved or kind rather than someone who shows physical courage. If you call a child brave, you are likely praising their obedience rather than their heroism.
- The phrase avoir du cran is a common idiomatic way to say someone has 'guts' or 'nerve'. While 'sois courageux' is formal, this is much more colloquial and gritty.
- While sois courageux is grammatically correct, a French person facing a challenge is more likely to be told bon courage. This phrase is used as a wish for strength rather than a direct command to be brave.
Examples in context
- Soyez courageux, vous pouvez le faire!Be brave, you can do it!
- Sois courageuse, je crois en toi!Be brave, I believe in you!
- Sois courageux face à cette épreuve.Be brave in the face of this ordeal.
- Sois courageux, tout ira bien.Be brave, everything will be fine.
- Sois courageux et parle-lui.Be brave and talk to him.
Example conversation
Lucas is nervous about a difficult job interview.
- LéaTu es très stressé, n'est-ce pas ?You are very stressed, aren't you?
- LucasOui, j'ai peur de ne pas réussir.Yes, I am afraid of not succeeding.
- LéaSois courageux, Lucas, tu es capable.Be brave, Lucas, you are capable.
- LucasMerci, je vais essayer.Thank you, I will try.
