Idiom
keep a stiff upper lip
Meanings
To remain emotionally controlled and not show distress in a hard or upsetting situation.
Definition
To keep a stiff upper lip means to stay calm and not show strong emotions, especially in a difficult situation.
If you keep a stiff upper lip, you control your feelings and avoid showing sadness, fear, or stress in public. It often suggests behaving bravely or steadily when things are painful or worrying. The phrase is strongly associated with traditional British attitudes about not making a fuss.
Examples
- She tried to keep a stiff upper lip during the funeral.
- Even after the bad news, he kept a stiff upper lip at work.
- I know it hurts, but you must keep a stiff upper lip for the children.
- The team kept a stiff upper lip after the defeat and thanked the fans.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes use it to mean “stay physically stiff” rather than “hide or control your emotions.”
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