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How to Say "mettle" in Spanish

English → Spanish

acero

ah-SEH-rohaˈθeɾo

nounC1general
Use 'acero' when 'mettle' refers to a strong, almost unyielding courage and determination, often tested under pressure or adversity.
A small, sturdy green sapling growing successfully out of a fissure in a large, gray rock, symbolizing resilience.

Examples

Tuvo que demostrar su acero frente a las críticas de la prensa.

He had to show his mettle (strength/resilience) in the face of press criticism.

Mantenía una mirada de acero, sin mostrar miedo.

She maintained a steely gaze, without showing fear.

Figurative Use

When used figuratively, 'acero' often appears after the preposition 'de' (of) to describe a quality: 'una persona de acero' (a person of steel/a very tough person).

temple

TEM-plehˈtem.ple

nounB2general
Choose 'temple' for 'mettle' when emphasizing a steady, controlled strength of character and emotional resilience, particularly in difficult situations.
A small, sturdy bird standing firmly against a strong wind with a determined expression.

Examples

El capitán mostró un gran temple durante la tormenta.

The captain showed great mettle during the storm.

Para ser cirujano, se necesita mucho temple.

To be a surgeon, you need a lot of composure.

Es una mujer de temple que no se rinde fácilmente.

She is a woman of character who doesn't give up easily.

The 'El' Rule

This is a masculine word. Even though it ends in 'e', you always use 'el' or 'un' (el temple, un temple).

Abstract vs. Concrete

While it describes an abstract quality like 'courage', it is treated as a countable noun when referring to specific types of character.

Temple vs. Templo

Mistake: “Using 'temple' to mean a religious building.”

Correction: Use 'templo' for a physical temple or church. 'Temple' refers to character or metal tempering.

casta

kahs-tahˈkasta

nounB2general
Use 'casta' for 'mettle' only when referring to inherent inner strength, character, or quality, often implying a noble or distinguished lineage, like in animals or people of high standing.
A large, sturdy oak tree with deep, visible roots and many branches spread out against a soft blue sky.

Examples

Ese caballo es de buena casta.

That horse is of a good breed.

Le viene de casta ser tan valiente; su abuelo era igual.

Being so brave runs in his blood; his grandfather was the same.

El equipo perdió, pero demostró tener mucha casta.

The team lost, but they showed a lot of spirit and grit.

Always Feminine

Even when you are talking about a male animal or a man's lineage, 'casta' remains a feminine noun. You would say 'el perro es de buena casta,' not 'casto.'

Using it for 'Cast'

Mistake: “El casta de la película es famoso.”

Correction: El reparto de la película es famoso.

Distinguishing 'Acero', 'Temple', and 'Casta'

Learners often confuse 'acero' and 'temple' because both mean strength of character. Remember that 'acero' implies a more forceful, tested resilience, while 'temple' suggests a calmer, more controlled fortitude. 'Casta' is rarely used for 'mettle' in everyday conversation; it's more about inherent quality or lineage.

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