Stand your ground

Meaning

The idiom "stand your ground" is used to describe someone who stands firm in their beliefs or actions, even when faced with opposition or adversity. It can also refer to someone who is not afraid to fight for what they believe in or to defend themselves against harm.

Usage

• The protesters stood their ground and refused to back down from their demands.
• Despite facing criticism and resistance, the leader stood his ground and never wavered from his vision.
• When faced with a dangerous situation, the police officer stood his ground and did not back down until the threat had passed.
• The athlete stood her ground and refused to give up, even when it seemed like she was losing the game.
• The activist stood his ground and continued to fight for his cause, despite facing harassment and intimidation. The usage of the idiom can vary depending on the context. In some situations, it may be used to describe someone who is stubborn or inflexible, while in others it may be used to describe someone who is brave and determined.

Roots and History

The idiom "stand your ground" has its origins in the military, where soldiers are trained to defend their position against enemy attacks. Over time, the phrase became a metaphor for standing up for one's beliefs or taking a firm stance against adversity. The first known use of the idiom in print was in the book "The New Englanders" by Josephine Miles in 1906.

Synonyms in English

• Hold your own
• Stand tall
• Stick up for yourself
• Take a stand
• Be firm

Synonyms in other languages

• In Spanish: Mantenerse recto
• In French: Maintenir une position fermée
• In German: Die Position halten
• In Italian: Tenere la posizione
• In Japanese: 立ち直し (tachiakashi)

Similar Idioms

• stiff upper lip

• high on the hog

• save your breath