stands pat
Holds one's ground
To stand pat is to refuse to change one's position, decision, or strategy despite pressure to do otherwise.
The expression comes from poker, where a player who stands pat keeps their original hand rather than drawing new cards.
The committee stood pat on its original recommendation despite public criticism.
In broader use, standing pat suggests stubbornness or confidence, depending on context—either admirable resolve or unwillingness to adapt.
- bluffingDeceiving about one's position
- poker faceIntentionally expressionless look
- firmnessResistance to deformation
- resolveFirmness of purpose
- assuranceFirm promise or certainty
holds firm · chips · perseverance · folding · double down · stakes · determination · conservatism · conviction · choice · stubbornness · tenacity · digs in · won't budge · constancy · staying put · betting · judgment
stands patadapts
Modifies to suit circumstances
pivots · adjusts · backtracks · reconsiders · evolves
stands patbends
Curves or yields
adapts · flexes · goes with the flow · rolls with the punches · accommodates