grinned and bore it
Tolerated with composure
Grinned and bore it is the past tense of grin and bear it—to endure something unpleasant with outward cheerfulness or at least without complaint.
The phrase implies stoic acceptance: The service was terrible, but we grinned and bore it.
The grin suggests putting on a brave face rather than genuine happiness.
- facadeDeceptive outward appearance
- perseveranceSustained resolve despite obstacles
- pretenseDeceptive outward show
- acceptanceConsent to receive
- composureEmotional self-control
kept quiet · resilience · politeness · fortitude · discretion · patience · equanimity · tact · diplomacy · self-control · stiff upper lip · put on a brave face · poker face · grit · concealment · determination · calmness · tenacity
grinned and bore itmade a scene
Behaved dramatically in public
threw a tantrum · let it all out · vented · broke down · fell apart
grinned and bore itfought back
Defended oneself actively
pushed back · took a stand · protested · walked away · quit
grinned and bore itgrumbled
Complained in low tones
whined · griped · kvetched · bellyached · aired grievances