Dutch courage

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Dutch courage … John le Carré's Toby Bell takes to a cafe to prepare himself to steal an illicit recording back from his employer.

From The Guardian • Apr. 12, 2013

Bridegroom, Dutch courage of, 72; driven to desperation, 83.

From How to be Happy Though Married Being a Handbook to Marriage by Hardy, Edward John

"I think, sir," observed I, "that it is an injustice to this fine ship's company to hint at their requiring Dutch courage."

From Peter Simple; and, The Three Cutters, Vol. 1-2 by Marryat, Frederick

"Dutch courage is cheap enough," said a contemptuous, sneering voice in the background, and the sound of shuffling footsteps succeeded it.

From The White Blackbird by Douglas, Hudson

The Dutch have had second-hand flags to fight under; And so if "Dutch courage" mean borrowed, what wonder?

From Punch, or the London Charivari, Vol. 105 October 7, 1893 by Various