temerity
Noun
Hard difficulty
What does “temerity” mean?
noun.excessive confidence or boldness; audacity.
SAT Usage
the term is often found in passages discussing themes of bravery, recklessness, or defiance, particularly in the context of characters who take bold actions without considering the consequences. It emphasizes a sense of reckless audacity that can lead to both admiration and criticism, distinguishing it from words like "confidence," which may lack the negative connotation of foolishness or overreach.
Common Confusions
Temerity implies reckless boldness that disregards consequences, while confidence usually suggests a self-assuredness that is grounded and measured.
Do not choose temerity if the context emphasizes caution or restraint rather than excessive confidence or boldness; audacity.
Example Sentences
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She had the temerity to challenge the professor's core assumptions.