Come what may
Definitions
Accepting whatever happens
To express a willingness or determination to face and endure any situation or outcome, regardless of its difficulty or uncertaintyNo matter what
To indicate that something will happen regardless of any obstacles or challenges that may arise, often with a sense of resignation or resignationIn any case
To suggest that a course of action or decision will be followed regardless of any potential consequences or outcomes, often with a sense of defiance or determination
Examples of Come what may
She faced the storm with a brave heart, come what may.
This idiom means that she was prepared to face whatever the storm brought, no matter how bad it got. It suggests that she was determined and resolute in the face of adversity. The phrase "come what may" implies that the outcome is uncertain, but she was ready to face it regardless.
Conclusion
"Come what may" is a versatile idiom that can be used in various contexts. At its core, it expresses a willingness or determination to face and accept whatever may happen, whether it be a difficult situation or an uncertain outcome. It can also convey a sense of resignation, indicating that something will happen regardless of any obstacles or challenges that may arise. Alternatively, it can express a determination to follow through with a decision or course of action, regardless of any potential consequences.Origin of "Come what may"
The phrase "come what may" originated in the late 1500s and is derived from the Latin phrase "cum, quod, may", which translates to "whatever may happen". It has been used in literature and poetry, including Shakespeare's plays, to convey the idea of accepting whatever fate may bring. Over time, it has become a common idiomatic expression in English, used in both formal and informal contexts.
The phrase has also been linked to the concept of "carpe diem" or "seize the day", encouraging individuals to live in the present and accept whatever may come their way. It can also be seen as a reflection of the stoic philosophy, which emphasizes the acceptance of events that are beyond one's control.
In modern usage, "come what may" is often used to convey a sense of determination and resilience in the face of challenges and uncertainties. It encourages individuals to have a positive attitude and to face whatever may come their way with courage and determination.