keep your chin up
Meaning
Stay optimistic and not get discouraged, especially during difficulty or disappointment.
Origin
From the physical image of lifting your chin/head instead of lowering it in sadness or defeat; used as encouragement to look confident and hopeful.
Notes
A supportive, upbeat encouragement implying resilience and optimism. Common in casual speech and messages; can sound dismissive if someone is grieving or very upset.
Examples
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I know you didn’t get the job, but keep your chin up—something better will come along.
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Keep your chin up during finals week; you’ve prepared for this.
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After the breakup, her friends told her to keep her chin up and focus on herself.
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The coach reminded the team to keep their chins up even after the loss.
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It’s been a rough month, but keep your chin up and take it one day at a time.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually an imperative: “Keep your chin up.” Possessive varies (your/his/her/my), and tense can change (kept her chin up). Often used standalone or with a clause after it.
Synonyms
- cheer up
- stay positive
- keep your spirits up
- hold your head up
- don’t lose hope
Antonyms
- lose heart
- give up
- get discouraged