I think there are degrees / types of bravery. They can't be compared, and some are of a different order, but they're all brave in a way:
- risking your life by running into a burning house or jumping into a raging torrent to save a stranger's life
- risking your life to save/rescue your child or other loved one
- competing in skating at a high level
- criticizing a skater who is very popular / worshipped by many posters, knowing you will be vilified
Clearly these aren't comparable, but I personally would use the word brave for all of them, even knowing that they are not all the same.
I believe it was originally used here in a lighthearted way, to mean "oh, they'll get you for that!" And indeed they will.
- risking your life by running into a burning house or jumping into a raging torrent to save a stranger's life
- risking your life to save/rescue your child or other loved one
- competing in skating at a high level
- criticizing a skater who is very popular / worshipped by many posters, knowing you will be vilified
Clearly these aren't comparable, but I personally would use the word brave for all of them, even knowing that they are not all the same.
I believe it was originally used here in a lighthearted way, to mean "oh, they'll get you for that!" And indeed they will.