Stiff upper lip

Meaning

The idiom "stiff upper lip" refers to maintaining a calm and composed demeanor, even during difficult or emotional situations. It implies that one is able to control their emotions and not show any signs of weakness or vulnerability.

Usage

• Despite facing a lot of stress at work, John always kept a stiff upper lip and never let it affect his performance.
• When her best friend passed away unexpectedly, Sarah put on a brave face and gave her family a stiff upper lip to help them through the tough time.
• The Queen's guards were trained to maintain a stiff upper lip in all situations, even when facing danger or adversity.
• The soldier who was injured in battle had to endure immense pain, but he kept a stiff upper lip and fought on bravely.
• After losing her job, Mary put on a brave face and kept a stiff upper lip, determined to find a new opportunity soon.

Roots and History

The origin of the idiom "stiff upper lip" is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in Victorian England. During that time, men were expected to be stoic and not show any signs of weakness or emotional vulnerability. The idiom was used to describe a man who kept his emotions under control and did not let them affect his actions or behavior. Over time, the idiom has been adapted to refer to both men and women, and it is now used more broadly to describe anyone who maintains a calm and composed demeanor during difficult situations. The use of the idiom has also evolved to include people who are able to control their emotions and not let them affect their behavior in general, not just during specific situations.

Synonyms in English

• Hold one's head high
• Keep a cool head
• Stay composed
• Maintain one's dignity
• Put on a brave face

Synonyms in other languages

• French - "tenir la tête haute" - which means to hold one's head up high
• Spanish - "mantenerse erguido" - which means to keep one's head straight and maintain an upright posture
• German - "dichter blick" - which means a stern or serious gaze, typically used to describe someone who is maintaining a tough exterior
• Italian - "guardare avanti" - which means to look ahead or keep one's focus on the future
• Japanese - "紙面上に笑う" - which means to smile while maintaining a calm and composed demeanor, often used to describe someone who is able to control their emotions in difficult situations.

Similar Idioms

• on the other hand

• strike while the iron is hot

• fit of anger