“(As) bold as brass” is a common phrase that is used to describe someone who is confident, self-assured, and unafraid of taking risks. It is a phrase that is often used in a positive sense, to celebrate someone’s courage and daring, but it can also be used in a negative sense, to criticize someone for being too brash or arrogant.
Definitions
The phrase “(as) bold as brass” is typically used to describe someone who is unafraid of taking risks, speaking their mind, or standing up for themselves. It can also be used to describe someone who is confident and self-assured, even in the face of adversity.
Origin
The origin of the phrase “(as) bold as brass” is unclear, but it is thought to have originated in the United Kingdom in the early 19th century. It may have been derived from the phrase “brass-faced,” which was used to describe someone who was shameless or impudent.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the phrase “(as) bold as brass” means “utterly shameless or impudent.” The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines it as “unabashedly bold or brazen.”
Associations
The phrase “(as) bold as brass” is often associated with courage, confidence, and a willingness to take risks. It can also be associated with arrogance, impudence, and a lack of consideration for others.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “(as) bold as brass” include:
- Brazen.
- Shameless.
- Impudent.
- Audacious.
- Daring.
- Fearless.
- Confident.
- Self-assured.
Antonyms
Some antonyms for “(as) bold as brass” include:
- Shy.
- Timid.
- Meek.
- Humble.
- Modest.
- Reserved.
- Cautious.
- Apprehensive.
The same root words
The phrase “(as) bold as brass” does not have any specific root words, but it is likely derived from the phrase “brass-faced,” which combines the words “brass” (meaning shameless or impudent) and “faced” (meaning having a face or expression).
Example Sentences
- “She walked into the interview room as bold as brass, confident in her abilities and ready to take on any challenge.”
- “Despite the risks, he decided to speak out against the injustice he saw, showing himself to be as bold as brass.”
- “The politician’s bold promises sounded impressive, but many people were skeptical of his ability to deliver.”
- “She was so bold as to ask for a raise on her first day on the job, which left her colleagues stunned.”
- “His brazen behavior at the party offended many people and earned him a reputation as someone who was as bold as brass.”
“(As) bold as brass” is a phrase that is used to describe someone who is confident, self-assured, and unafraid of taking risks. While it can be used in a positive sense to celebrate someone’s courage, it can also be used in a negative sense to criticize someone for being too brash or arrogant. Regardless of its connotations, the phrase has become a common part of the English language, and it continues to be used in a variety of contexts today.