make the best of it
Meaning
To accept a bad or disappointing situation and try to get the most benefit or enjoyment from it.
Origin
Recorded from the 1700s, built on the older phrase “make the best of,” meaning to use something in the most advantageous way; “it” refers to the situation at hand.
Notes
A pragmatic, encouraging phrase implying the situation isn’t ideal but you’ll cope and find some upside. Common in conversation; be careful it doesn’t sound dismissive of someone’s frustration.
Examples
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Our hotel room was tiny, but we decided to make the best of it and spend more time exploring the city.
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It started raining on our picnic, so we made the best of it and ate under the shelter.
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I didn’t get the job I wanted, but I’m trying to make the best of it and learn from the interview.
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The power went out during the party, but everyone made the best of it and played games by candlelight.
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The recipe didn’t turn out perfectly, but we’ll make the best of it and serve it anyway.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed pattern: “make the best of + noun/pronoun.” Often used as “We’ll/Just make the best of it.” Verb inflects (made), but wording is otherwise stable.
Synonyms
- make the most of it
- make do
- make do with what you have
- roll with the punches
- take it in stride
Antonyms
- make the worst of it
- wallow in self-pity
- give up