What Makes a Hero? Conversation Vocabulary Inspired by the Revolution

Level: Intermediate • Date: April 20, 2025

Read the article aloud on your own or repeat each paragraph after your tutor.

The Idea of a Hero

What makes someone a hero? Is it bravery, sacrifice, or something else? During the American Revolution, many people were seen as heroes—soldiers, leaders, messengers, and even farmers who helped the cause. Some risked their lives to stand up for freedom. Others gave their time, energy, or resources to support the fight.

But not everyone agreed. In 1775, British leaders saw these same people as lawbreakers. Some were even called traitors. Today, we look back and see courage. At the time, they saw danger.

So who decides what a hero looks like? Often, it depends on the values of the time—and the story we choose to tell.

Talking About Heroes at Work

The idea of a hero isn’t just for history books. In business, we often use “hero” language too. We talk about “stepping up,” “going the extra mile,” or “saving the day.” These phrases come from the same idea: someone takes action in a tough moment.

Maybe it’s the team member who stays late to fix a client issue. Or the new hire who speaks up with a smart idea that solves a big problem. These people become “everyday heroes” in the workplace. They may not wear capes—but their actions make a big difference.

It’s helpful to learn how to talk about these moments. Words like courage, initiative, support, and sacrifice can help you describe the actions that stand out.

Everyday Bravery

Being a hero doesn’t always mean being loud or bold. Sometimes it means doing the right thing when no one is watching. Standing up for a teammate. Admitting a mistake. Speaking up when it’s easier to stay silent.

These are the small, brave acts that build trust and leadership in everyday life. They show integrity and character—two traits that are valued in both history and the workplace.

You don’t have to be famous to be a hero. Sometimes, being a good example is enough.

Vocabulary

Hero (noun) – someone admired for bravery or great actions
- She became a hero after helping others during a crisis.
Bravery (noun) – the quality of being courageous or not afraid
- His bravery in speaking up inspired the whole team.
Sacrifice (noun) – giving something up for a greater good
- He made a personal sacrifice to meet the deadline.
Stand up for (phrasal verb) – to support or defend something
- She stood up for her coworker during the meeting.
Step up (phrasal verb) – to take action when needed
- He stepped up when the team needed leadership.
Initiative (noun) – the ability to act and take charge without being told
- Taking initiative shows that you care about your work.
Support (verb/noun) – to help or encourage someone or something
- Her support made a big difference to the new team member.
Admit (verb) – to say that something is true, especially if it’s difficult
- He admitted his mistake and worked to fix it.
Integrity (noun) – the quality of being honest and having strong morals
- A good leader must have integrity.
Character (noun) – a person’s qualities, especially moral ones

Her strong character helped her succeed.

Discussion Questions

About the Article

What are some qualities that make someone a hero?
Why did British leaders and colonists disagree about who was a hero?
How can someone be a hero at work?
What are some examples of everyday bravery?
Why do values and stories shape who we call a hero?

About the Topic

Who is someone you think of as a hero, and why?
Have you ever seen someone “step up” in a tough situation?
Can small actions still show bravery? Give an example.
Do you think workplace heroes are always noticed? Why or why not?
How can you be a role model or support others at work?

Suggested Phrase

“Go the extra mile”

Meaning: to do more than what is expected
Example: She went the extra mile to make sure the client was happy.

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