Balls of steel Meaning in English
expression
Definition
This informal expression means someone is extremely brave or has a lot of courage, especially in dangerous or stressful situations.
Usage & Nuances
Highly informal, sometimes vulgar; often used to admire someone's bravery. Typical phrases: 'He's got balls of steel' or 'You need balls of steel to do that.' Used for all genders, though literal meaning refers to masculinity. Not used in formal writing; sometimes replaced by 'nerves of steel' (gender-neutral).
Example Sentences
You need balls of steel to climb that mountain.
basic
She showed balls of steel when she spoke up at the meeting.
basic
That firefighter has balls of steel.
basic
Wow, you really have balls of steel for quitting your job like that!
natural
You have to have balls of steel to negotiate with them.
natural
Only someone with balls of steel would go skydiving without hesitation.
natural