Grin and bear it
/ɡrɪn ən beər ɪt/informalUK · US
What does “Grin and bear it” mean?
Grin and bear it means to put up with something unpleasant without complaining
You might grin and bear a long ceremony when leaving would upset your friend. You are not enjoying it, even if you look cheerful.
It can be a light complaint about a minor inconvenience. Avoid using it to dismiss someone’s pain or a situation they should be able to leave.
When do people say it?
Use it for an unpleasant situation you cannot readily change. Telling someone else to do this can sound unsympathetic.
“The ceremony lasted three hours, so we had to grin and bear it.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
“Grin” means smile broadly, and “bear” means endure. Together they picture putting on a brave face while something unpleasant happens.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Grin and bear it” in other languages?
Related idioms
- Bite the bullet, To face something unpleasant with resolve.
Last updated 2026-10-01