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general::
see BRAVE FACE., Also, put up a brave front. 1. Face adversity cheerfully. For example, Even though she had been passed over for promotion, she put on a brave face. 2. Try to appear brave even though very frightened. For example, Harry was terrified of animals, but his boss was a dog lover, so he put up a brave front. [Second half of 1800s]
American Heritage Idioms