English Idioms

Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms

Keep your chin up

Meaning

The idiom "keep your chin up" is used to motivate someone or encourage them to stay positive during a difficult time. It means that one should maintain their dignity and hold their head high in the face of adversity. The phrase also implies that the person should have self-confidence and not let their spirits be lowered by challenges or setbacks.

Usage

  • "After losing his job, John's friends told him to keep his chin up and reminded him that he was a talented individual with many skills."
  • "As the team struggled during the game, the coach yelled at them to keep their chin up and never give up."
  • "When she found out her exam results, Sarah felt downcast but her friends encouraged her to keep her chin up and not to let it affect her self-esteem."
  • "Despite facing many obstacles, the entrepreneur kept his chin up and worked tirelessly to make his business a success."
  • "When she was going through a tough time in life, Sarah's family reminded her to keep her chin up and stay strong for their sake." The usage of this idiom can vary depending on the context. It can be used in both formal and informal settings, but it is more commonly used in casual conversations with friends and family.

Roots and History

The idiom "keep your chin up" is believed to have originated in the 16th century when people would hold their chins high as a sign of respect or deference. Over time, the phrase evolved to mean that one should maintain their dignity and self-confidence during difficult times. The earliest known use of this idiom can be traced back to the Elizabethan era in England.

Synonyms in English

  • Keep your spirits up
  • Don't lose heart
  • Hold your head high
  • Stay positive
  • Be resilient

Synonyms in other languages

  • French - "Mettre le bout de sa langue" (literally, "put the end of his tongue")
  • Spanish - "Celebra la vida" (literally, "celebrate life")
  • German - "Halt dir die Kopf hoch" (literally, "hold your head high")
  • Italian - "Ridicere le difficoltà" (literally, "make fun of difficulties")
  • Japanese - "心を開く" (literally, "open your heart") These synonyms convey the same meaning as the English idiom and are commonly used in their respective languages to encourage positivity and resilience during difficult times.

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