Phrase guide

face up to

verb · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

verb

Meaning 1

To confront a condition or situation, typically one that is unpleasant or uncomfortable.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • We must all face up to the fact that we're not getting any younger.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

9 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Chinese Mandarin: 面對 /面对 (miànduì) — to confront
  • Finnish: myöntää — to confront
  • Galician: afrontar — to confront
  • Galician: arrostrar — to confront
  • Galician: encarar — to confront
  • German: sich etwas stellen — to confront
  • Polish: stawiać czoła — to confront
  • Polish: stawić czoła — to confront
  • Portuguese: encarar — to confront