The noun temerity means daring or recklessness. In contrast, the noun timidity means fearfulness.
(b) "The first symptom of love in a young man is _____; in a girl, boldness." (Victor Hugo)
Answers to Practice Exercises
Glossary of Usage: Index of Commonly Confused Words
Examples:
- "A great deal of talent is lost to the world for want of a little courage. Every day sends to their graves obscure men whose timidity prevented them from making a first effort." (Sydney Smith)
- Harry Truman had the temerity to tell General MacArthur to shut up.
Practice:
(a) The students lacked the ____ to correct their teacher's mistake.(b) "The first symptom of love in a young man is _____; in a girl, boldness." (Victor Hugo)
Answers to Practice Exercises
Glossary of Usage: Index of Commonly Confused Words