close the face: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘close the face’ mean?
The idiom "close the face" means to become silent or refuse to speak about something, usually a topic that is embarrassing or unpleasant. It implies shutting down communication or avoiding discussion to avoid further conflict or discomfort.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "keep shtum" means to remain silent or keep quiet about something, especially when it is important or could cause trouble if revealed.
The idiom "keep quiet" means to remain silent or not speak, especially when it is important to do so in order to maintain secrecy, avoid trouble, or not reveal information.
The idiom "keep one's mouth shut" means to remain silent or not reveal information, often to avoid causing trouble or trouble for oneself. It emphasizes the importance of not speaking or disclosing something that should remain secret or private.
The idiom "keep one's lips sealed" means to keep quiet or not reveal a secret or confidential information.
The idiom *in your face* means to confront someone with something aggressively or boldly, often to provoke a reaction. It implies direct and unapologetic behavior, disregarding social boundaries.
The idiom "in someone's face" means to confront or challenge someone in a direct and aggressive manner, often done to assert dominance or to express anger or frustration.
The idiom "in the face of" means to confront or deal with something difficult or challenging. It implies facing a problem or obstacle directly and not being intimidated or deterred by it.
The idiom "hold one's tongue" means to not speak or to remain silent, typically when faced with a situation where speaking might be inappropriate or cause trouble.
The idiom "hold one's peace" means to remain silent or refrain from speaking, especially when it is important or expected to do so.
The idiom "hold one's peace" is commonly used in the English language. It is derived from the Old English word "peac," meaning peace or quietness. The phrase dates back to the 14th century and is still widely used today.
The idiom "go into one's shell" means to become quiet, reserved, or withdrawn, usually due to feeling shy, embarrassed, or defensive.
Unveiling Hidden Origins
The idiom "close the face" has several meanings and uses in American English, primarily related to facial expressions and communication. One common meaning of this idiom is to adopt a serious or stern expression, often by raising the eyebrows and tightening the lips. Frowning or scowling can also be associated with this expression. Additionally, "close the face" can refer to the act of ending a conversation abruptly or refusing to engage in further communication. It implies a certain level of aloofness or standoffishness.
Another interpretation of "close the face" is to keep one's thoughts or emotions hidden and maintain a neutral expression. It can be understood as a means of concealing true feelings or intentions. This usage is often associated with poker or other card games, where players attempt to maintain a blank or unreadable face to prevent opponents from guessing their hand.
This idiom's origins are unclear, as there is limited information available on its etymology. It is possible that the phrase originated from the physical act of a person closing their facial features, such as the eyes, lips, or eyebrows, to convey a particular mood or message. Alternatively, it may have evolved from a metaphorical sense of closing off or shutting down communication.
In contemporary usage, "close the face" is mainly encountered in informal conversations and literature, including novels and plays. It can be found in dialogue where characters employ vivid or nuanced language to express their emotions or attitudes. Although not as commonly used in formal or professional settings, the idiom might appear when discussing body language or interpersonal dynamics.
Exploring the meaning of "close the face" opens up space for contemplation and speculation about the intricacies of facial expressions and nonverbal communication. This idiom invites us to consider the complex ways in which human emotions and intentions can be conveyed or concealed through subtle changes in facial expression. It reminds us of the subtleties of interpersonal interactions and the many layers of meaning that can be found beneath the surface.
The idiom "close one's eyes" is related to "close the face" in that it also involves the act of closing a facial feature. However, "close one's eyes" has a different connotation. When someone "closes their eyes," they are often doing so to shut out distractions or to focus their attention inward. It suggests a deliberate choice to avoid seeing or acknowledging something. This idiom can be used metaphorically to indicate willful ignorance or a refusal to confront a particular situation or truth.
For example, someone who "closes their eyes" to the struggles of others may be intentionally avoiding the harsh realities of the world, choosing instead to remain in a comfortable bubble of ignorance. Similarly, someone who "closes their eyes" to their own faults or shortcomings may be unwilling to confront difficult truths about themselves. In both cases, the idiom "close one's eyes" implies a deliberate act of avoidance or denial.
On the other hand, "close one's mind" is another related idiom that has a similar meaning to "close the face." When someone "closes their mind," they are refusing to consider or entertain new ideas, perspectives, or information. It suggests a fixed or rigid mindset that is resistant to change or alternative viewpoints.
Someone who "closes their mind" may be unwilling to listen to or engage with differing opinions, dismissing them without thoughtful consideration. This idiom can also be associated with closed-mindedness or prejudice, as it indicates a lack of openness to new experiences or perspectives. It suggests a mindset that is resistant to growth, learning, and understanding.
Both "close one's eyes" and "close one's mind" can be seen as extensions of the concept of "close the face," as they involve deliberately shutting out or closing off certain aspects of oneself or one's perception. Each idiom explores a different facet of human behavior and psychology, shedding light on the complex ways in which we navigate the world around us.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "close the face" can be used in a sentence:
- He closed his face and refused to speak to me after the argument.
- She tends to close her face whenever someone brings up a sensitive topic.
- When confronted with criticism, he quickly closed his face and walked away.
The phrase "close the face" is used to describe an action of someone shutting down verbally or emotionally, refusing to communicate or engage in a conversation or discussion. It implies a defensive reaction to a situation, often as a way to protect one's feelings or avoid further conflict.
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