unafraid
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /ʌnəfrˈeɪd/
US
- /ˌənəˈfreɪd/
Description
- not fearful
- brave
- bold
- ready to face danger
To be unafraid is not just to feel no fear. It is to face something hard or scary without backing away. Think of a little bird leaving the nest for the first time; it may shake for a moment, but it jumps anyway, ready to try its wings. A knight going into battle may feel fear, but still rides forward because duty matters more. Sometimes, being unafraid means telling the truth even when your voice shakes.
"Unafraid" describes a state of being without fear, or having the courage to act despite feeling fear. It is more nuanced than simply lacking fear; it suggests resilience and inner strength that allow someone to face challenges with boldness and determination. While everyone feels fear at times, an unafraid person does not let it control their actions.
The word often appears in contexts of bravery, defiance, or moral conviction. You might describe a civil rights activist as unafraid to speak out against injustice, or a firefighter as unafraid to enter a burning building to save lives. It can also be used to highlight someone's willingness to take risks or explore the unknown. "She was unafraid to pursue her dreams, even when others doubted her."
However, being unafraid does not necessarily mean being reckless. It often implies careful thought about risk, along with a strong belief in one's purpose. A seasoned sailor might be unafraid of a storm because they have the knowledge and skill to navigate it safely.
Historically, the concept of being "unafraid" has been central to many heroic narratives and moral tales. From ancient myths to modern literature, characters who demonstrate courage in the face of adversity are often celebrated for their unafraid spirit. It's a quality that inspires admiration and embodies strength of character.
So whether describing a fearless leader, a determined individual, or someone facing their fears with grace, "unafraid" speaks to a powerful combination of courage, resilience, and unwavering conviction.
Examples
- 1
Animal behavior
Even in the dark woods, the dog walked ahead, alert but unafraid.
- 2
Training
She was unafraid of hard work, so the long training days didn't bother her.
- 3
Language learning
In class, he's unafraid of making mistakes, so he speaks English whenever he can.
Pattern
unafraid of + -ing
not worried about doing it
- 4
Direct questions
She's unafraid to ask direct questions when something is unclear.
Pattern
unafraid to + verb
willing to do it even if it may feel difficult
- 5
Journalism
The best reporters are curious and unafraid to challenge people in power.
- 6
Business change
Investors liked her because she seemed unafraid of change.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- unafraidadjective