Keep a stiff upper lip Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To remain calm and not show feelings of fear or sadness, especially in difficult situations.
Usage & Nuances
This is a British English idiom, often formal or literary. Used to praise people who face hardship without showing emotion. Similar phrases: 'stay strong', 'put on a brave face'. Usually used for stoic, restrained behavior.
Example Sentences
British people are known to keep a stiff upper lip in tough times.
basic
His parents taught him to keep a stiff upper lip during hard times.
basic
Even when she lost her job, she tried to keep a stiff upper lip.
basic
You just have to keep a stiff upper lip and carry on, even when things get rough.
natural
It’s never easy to keep a stiff upper lip when you’re hurting inside.
natural
He managed to keep a stiff upper lip at the funeral, but later he broke down.
natural