lose your nerve.

To stop feeling sufficiently brave or steady to continue an intended action.

Use it for

Words that belong together

• lose your nerve halfway through
• nearly lose your nerve
• not lose your nerve

On the page

He lost his nerve halfway across the swaying walkway.

If you lose your nerve, keep hold of the rail and tell me.

She almost lost her nerve when the accused turned to face her.

Usage notes

Primary category: fear. Can happen during action, unlike cold feet which usually arise before commitment; does not necessarily entail a complete retreat. Lose, loses, lost, lost, losing your nerve; change your to match the subject. Nerve remains singular.