PhrasesHub

put on a brave face

    Definitions

      • conceal one's true feelings
        To pretend to be cheerful or optimistic in spite of feeling scared, worried, or upset

      • show courage in difficult circumstances
        To display a brave and confident demeanor, especially when facing adversity or hardship

    Examples of put on a brave face

    • Despite losing her job and going through a bad breakup, Sarah put on a brave face and attended her best friend's wedding with a smile.

      The idiom "put on a brave face" means to avoid showing one's true feelings, especially when undergoing difficult circumstances. In this example, Sarah appeared cheerful and optimistic, despite the struggles she was facing in her personal life. She wanted to support her friend on her special day and didn't want to bring negativity into the celebration, so she masked her emotions and presented a positive facade.

    • Despite her fears, she put on a brave face and delivered a compelling speech at the conference.

      The phrase "put on a brave face" means to appear confident and courageous, even when feeling afraid or nervous inside. In this example, the speaker is facing her fears and choosing to present herself as strong and confident, despite her inner doubts.

    • After losing his job, Tom put on a brave face and started his own business.

      Here, Tom is facing a difficult situation - losing his job - and responding by showing bravery and determination. Rather than wallowing in despair, Tom is choosing to take proactive steps towards a positive outcome, such as starting his own business.

    • When Jane's husband left her, she put on a brave face and focused on being there for their children.

      Again, the phrase "put on a brave face" is being used to describe someone dealing with a difficult or emotionally challenging situation. In this case, Jane's husband has left her, causing her a great deal of pain and upset. However, she is choosing to show strength and resilience, by focusing on her children's needs and being a supportive parent for them.

    • Although the weather forecast was for heavy rain, the couple put on a brave face and enjoyed a picnic in the park.

      Here, the couple is facing an uncertain situation - possible rain ruining their picnic plans - but choosing to maintain a positive outlook. They're showing bravery by being prepared to adapt and adjust their plans, rather than being defeated by the weather.

    • Despite the fact that Sarah's husband had passed away just a few days ago, she put on a brave face and bravely faced the mourners at the funeral home.

      This example shows that the phrase "put on a brave face" is used to describe someone who is showing strength and courage in a difficult and emotionally challenging situation. Sarah's husband's death was an incredibly hard and sad time for her, but she was able to gather enough courage to appear strong in front of others during the funeral ceremony.

    • The CEO put on a brave face as he announced to the employees that the company was facing financial difficulties and layoffs would be necessary.

      This example demonstrates that the phrase "put on a brave face" is also applicable when someone has to deliver unfavorable news or face a difficult situation at work. In this case, the CEO had to convey unpleasant information to his employees, but he did so with a brave demeanor, which helped to minimize the negative impact and minimize any potential panic or upheaval.

    • The athlete put on a brave face as he stepped onto the court to face his fierce rival.

      Here, "put on a brave face" implies that the athlete was determined to display bravery and confidence even in the face of an intimidating opponent. This may have helped the athlete to maintain his focus and composure and perform at his best, ultimately leading to a victory.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "put on a brave face" can be used to describe both the act of concealing one's true feelings and the act of showing courage in difficult circumstances. It is often used to encourage someone to stay strong and positive despite challenges, or to acknowledge when someone is trying to hide their true emotions.

    Origin of "put on a brave face"

    The origin of the idiom "put on a brave face" is not definitively known, but it likely originated from the idea of wearing a mask to conceal one's true emotions. The word "brave" in this context refers to courage and strength, and "face" refers to the outward expression or appearance. This idiom has been used in literature and everyday speech for many years, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive attitude in the face of adversity. For example, in times of war or hardship, individuals may be encouraged to "put on a brave face" to inspire hope and resilience. Over time, the idiom has become a common way to express the idea of staying strong and optimistic in tough situations.