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Daily Idioms
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Keep your chin up

Keep your chin up

(To remain cheerful in a tough situation)
The phrase dates back to the early 20th century and is of American origin. It suggests the notion of a proud and unwavering attitude.
I know you're having a tough time with your studies, but keep your chin up. Things will get better.
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📖 Meanings

  • 1.

    To stay positive despite difficulties

  • 2.

    To maintain a positive attitude in the face of adversity

  • 3.

    To not let problems or difficulties get you down

  • 4.

    To persist and not lose hope despite challenges

💬 Examples

  • 1.

    Despite the setback in the project, the team leader encouraged everyone to keep their chins up.

  • 2.

    After her breakup, her friends told her to keep her chin up and move on.

  • 3.

    The coach told the team to keep their chins up after the loss.

  • 4.

    When life gets tough, you have to keep your chin up and keep going.

🗞️ Etymology

  • 1.

    The phrase may have originated from the physical posture of holding one's head up high when facing difficulties.

  • 2.

    The phrase 'keep your chin up' is often associated with boxing, where fighters are advised to keep their chins up to avoid punches.

  • 3.

    In the 1940s, the phrase was popularized in songs and movies to inspire optimism during World War II.

  • 4.

    The phrase is similar to 'hold your head high', another idiom that encourages maintaining a positive outlook.

🔁 Synonyms

  • 1.

    Stay positive

  • 2.

    Hold your head high

  • 3.

    Don't get down

  • 4.

    Be optimistic

  • 5.

    Don't lose hope

🌀 Variants

  • 1.

    Keep your chin high

  • 2.

    Keep one's chin up

  • 3.

    Keep that chin up

  • 4.

    Keep the chin up

  • 5.

    Keep your chin held high