Inklingo

How to Say "mettle" in Spanish

The Spanish word formettleis aceroC1 level.

English → SpanishC1

acero

nounC1formal
courage and determination
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).

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.