PhrasesHub

Stiff upper lip

    Definitions

      • encourage someone to be brave and not show their emotions
        Advise someone to remain calm and brave in the face of adversity, especially by not showing their emotions or distress

      • maintain composure
        Encourage someone to maintain composure and not show their feelings, especially in difficult or challenging situations

    Examples of Stiff upper lip

    • Despite the overwhelming stress and challenges that he faced in his personal and professional life, he maintained a "stiff upper lip" and persevered through it all.

      This idiom originated in the 19th century, and it refers to the stiff, upright, and unyielding nature that British men, in particular, were encouraged to display during difficult times. It implies self-control, resilience, and an unwillingness to show emotion, even in the face of adversity.

    • The CEO faced an intense crisis at her company, but she refused to crack under pressure and remained steadfast with a "stiff upper lip."

      This idiom is commonly used in formal and professional settings to describe people who exhibit strength, courage, and determination in the face of adversity. It implies a level of maturity and composure that allows individuals to face difficult circumstances with poise and grace.

    • While her friends cried and moaned about their problems, she remained stoic with a "stiff upper lip," refusing to be dragged down by negativity.

      This idiom can also be used in a more informal setting, where it implies the ability to remain positive and optimistic in the face of negative situations. It suggests a level of self-assurance and emotional stability that allows individuals to maintain a positive attitude, even during difficult times.

    • One must steel oneself with a "stiff upper lip" when facing the realities of life, for it is only through perseverance and strength that one can overcome adversity.

      This idiom emphasizes the importance of resilience and self-reliance in dealing with difficult situations. It implies a level of mental toughness and emotional fortitude that allows individuals to face challenges head-on, rather than succumbing to despair or defeat. Overall, it encourages people to remain strong and composed, even in the face of adversity.

    • She faced her husband's cheating scandal with a stiff upper lip.

      This idiom is used to describe someone who maintains self-control and composure in the face of adversity. The phrase "stiff upper lip" originated from the British military, where it was encouraged to suppress emotions and maintain a formal, stoic demeanor. In this example, the woman remains composed and does not openly display her emotions in response to her husband's infidelity.

    • Despite the overwhelming negative feedback from the company's investors, the CEO kept a stiff upper lip and reassured his employees that they would overcome the criticism.

      Here, the CEO demonstrates the ability to maintain confidence and optimism in the face of criticism, which is a quality shown in those who have a stiff upper lip. This idiom is frequently used in professional situations to describe individuals who remain calm and level-headed in the midst of pressure.

    • Even after losing his father unexpectedly, the man continued to put on a stiff upper lip and carry on with his daily routine.

      The phrase "stiff upper lip" implies that someone is resilient and can overcome challenging circumstances with strength and fortitude. In this case, the man's ability to cope with his father's death without breaking down is a testament to his resiliency.

    • The doctor explained the diagnosis of terminal cancer to his patient with a stiff upper lip, showing compassion and respect for the patient's emotions while also remaining professional.

      Here, the use of "stiff upper lip" is both a professional and a humanitarian quality. The doctor is gaining trust and confidence from his patient, and at the same time, he is being a compassionate caregiver. This concept is important because it shows that being professional does not mean that there is no emotion or caring involved. The idiom represents someone that can be a leader and is respected, not necessarily someone who has a lack of emotions.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "stiff upper lip" can be used to advise someone to remain brave and composed in difficult situations, without showing their emotions. It is often used to encourage people to stay strong and not let their feelings or distress affect their behavior. This idiom is commonly used in British English and is a way to remind someone to maintain a sense of dignity and resolve in the face of adversity.

    Origin of "Stiff upper lip"

    The phrase "stiff upper lip" originated in Britain and is often associated with the British mentality of remaining stoic and composed, especially in times of hardship or difficulty. It is believed to have originated in the 19th century and has become a well-known aspect of British culture. The "stiff upper lip" was seen as a sign of strength and resilience, and it became a way to encourage people to maintain their composure and not succumb to their emotions, particularly during times of war or national crisis. The idiom has since become a common expression in English-speaking countries and is used to remind people to stay strong in the face of adversity.