take it like a man

Accept without complaint

To take it like a man is to endure pain, criticism, or hardship stoically, without complaining or showing weakness.

The phrase invokes traditional masculine ideals of toughness and emotional restraint: He knew the surgery would hurt, but he took it like a man.

Often used encouragingly or mockingly, and sometimes ironically by those who reject its gender assumptions.

Related

fortitude · calmness · struggle · composure · endurance · walk it off · self-restraint · courage · defeat · acceptance · hardship · suck it up · dignity · grit · no pain no gain · stoicism · challenge · strength

Opposites
emotional response to adversity

take it like a manwhine

Complain in high pitch

break down · fall apart · have a meltdown · throw a tantrum · pitch a fit

confrontation vs. avoidance

take it like a manrun away

Depart hastily to escape

flee · chicken out · turn tail · cower · hide

acceptance vs. resistance

take it like a manprotest

Public expression of disapproval

throw a fit · make a fuss · pitch a fit · beg for mercy · plead

Family

take, takes, taken, taking, taker, takers, like, likes, liked

Familiarity
Top 100,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Abstract · Everyday, not technical · Rated PG