Grit
noun /ɡrɪt/ — Courage and resolve — the ability to keep going when stopping would be easier.
Definition
Courage, resolve, and strength of character — particularly the ability to maintain sustained effort and direction in the face of difficulty, failure, and boredom. Angela Duckworth's research identified grit as a stronger predictor of success than intelligence.
Beyond the definition
Grit is not dramatic. It is not the heroic gesture or the inspiring speech. Grit is showing up again tomorrow, having shown up today, when the outcome is still unclear. It is the least glamorous of the virtues and one of the most necessary.
Origin & history
Old English 'greot' — sand, grit — the abrasive quality of coarse particles. The metaphorical sense (determined character) developed from the physical quality: rough, persistent, resistant.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
The project required less intelligence than grit — the willingness to solve the same problem fifteen times.
She had grit in a way that made other forms of talent look optional.
Duckworth's research suggested grit outpredicted IQ in almost every domain that mattered.
How to use it
This entry uses a noun. Follow the examples for articles and singular or plural forms; not every noun takes “a” or “an.”
Choose “Grit” when the meaning fits your context: Courage, resolve, and strength of character — particularly the ability to maintain sustained effort and direction in the face of difficulty, failure, and boredom. Angela Duckworth's research identified grit as a stronger predictor of success than intelligence.
Synonyms
determination, perseverance, resolve, tenacity, fortitude
Antonyms
quitting, giving up, fragility
Related words
Questions about this word
What does "Grit" mean?
Grit is noun meaning: Courage and resolve — the ability to keep going when stopping would be easier.. Courage, resolve, and strength of character — particularly the ability to maintain sustained effort and direction in the face of difficulty, failure, and boredom. Angela Duckworth's research identified grit as a stronger predictor of success than intelligence.
Where does the word "Grit" come from?
Old English 'greot' — sand, grit — the abrasive quality of coarse particles. The metaphorical sense (determined character) developed from the physical quality: rough, persistent, resistant.