Put on a brave face: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Put on a brave face” mean?

"Put on a brave face" means to act confident or optimistic, even when feeling scared or uncertain.

What context can I use the in?

Example

Despite the difficult situation, she put on a brave face and tackled the problem head-on.

Example

He tried to put on a brave face during the interview, even though he was nervous.

Example

She put on a brave face and smiled for the camera, despite feeling sad inside

Is “Put on a brave face” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Put on a brave face” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Put on a brave face” effectively in context?

You can use "Put on a Brave Face" to describe someone's ability to act confident or optimistic, even when feeling scared or uncertain. It implies that the person is putting up a front or hiding their true emotions. For example, if a friend is going through a tough time but still manages to appear cheerful, you might say, 'She's really good at putting on a brave face.'

• 1. Difficult Situations

  Despite the difficult situation, she put on a brave face and tackled the problem head-on.

• 2. Job Interviews

  He tried to put on a brave face during the interview, even though he was nervous.

• 3. Public Events

  She put on a brave face and smiled for the camera, despite feeling sad inside.

Similar phrases to “Put on a brave face”:

Keep a stiff upper lip

To remain brave and determined in the face of adversity

Example

Despite the setbacks, he kept a stiff upper lip and continued working towards his goals.

Fake it till you make it

To pretend to be confident or skilled until you actually become confident or skilled

Example

She didn't have much experience, but she decided to fake it till she made it.

Stay positive

To maintain an optimistic outlook, especially in difficult situations

Example

Even though things were tough, she tried to stay positive and focused on finding solutions.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Put on a brave face” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Put on a Brave Face" is unknown.

Is “Put on a brave face” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Put on a Brave Face" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe someone's ability to hide their true emotions and appear confident or optimistic in challenging situations.

What tone does “Put on a brave face” have?

"Put on a Brave Face" conveys a tone of resilience and strength. It suggests that the person is facing difficulties with courage and determination, even if they may be feeling scared or uncertain internally.

Can “Put on a brave face” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Put on a Brave Face" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a common behavior of acting confident or optimistic in difficult situations. You can use it in conversations with friends, family, colleagues, as well as in more formal contexts such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Despite her fear, she put on a brave face and delivered the speech.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "put on a brave face"!' to imply readiness to face a challenge.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• act confident
• appear optimistic
• hide one's true feelings
• maintain composure
• keep up a brave front

Antonyms

• show vulnerability
• express fear
• break down
• lose composure
• give in to emotions