a bold front

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bold front" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a confident or assertive appearance or attitude, often in the context of facing challenges or adversity. Example: "Despite the difficulties they faced, the team maintained a bold front, showing their determination to succeed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

"I laugh at myself trying to keep a bold front.

The New York Times

As one unnamed official scribbled on the minutes: "It will deceive our own people more than the Russians, but I suppose we must put on a bold front".

The Guardian - Books

Thin and pale, with oxygen tubing looped about her face, Ms. Miles, too, put up a bold front, kidding with her 8-year-old son and his father.

The New York Times

"The institution itself internally suffers, because the myth is that if we put up a bold front, defend all [our people] – in the end that doesn't help.

The Guardian

With a bold front that features a single headline and a cover price half that of its rivals, Público said it hoped to draw readers aged 25 to 45, said Ignacio Escolar, the newspaper's editor.

The New York Times

After a period of grief, in which Seacole says she did not stir for days, she composed herself, "turned a bold front to fortune", and assumed the management of her mother's hotel.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

EST| A newspaper based in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou has published a bold, front-page appeal for the release of a detained reporter, prompting an outpouring of support online and sympathetic statements from prominent media and business figures.

The New York Times

Walsh gave the Mullins-trained horse a bold front-running ride and kept enough back to deny his rival and friend AP McCoy, on warm favourite My Tent Or Yours, up the demanding Cheltenham hill.

BBC

Though it most likely will lose the massive machined alloy wheels and a side-skirt crease here or there before entering production, the concept otherwise looks showroom-ready, with a streamlined roof and angular flanks, as well as a bolder front fascia.

The New York Times

For instance, there is Nikica Jelavic, a big, bold front-runner who switched seamlessly from Glasgow Rangers to Everton last January.

The New York Times - Sports

The strength of the team is technical quality, personified by the midfield artist Luka Modric, and striking talent, led by the naturalized Brazilian Eduardo da Silva and Nikica Jelavic, a big, bold front-runner.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a bold front" to describe how someone outwardly presents themselves, particularly when facing challenges or attempting to hide inner feelings of fear or uncertainty.

Common error

Avoid using "a bold front" to describe genuine, internally-felt confidence. The phrase often implies an element of masking or concealing true feelings, so using it when someone is genuinely fearless might be inaccurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bold front" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb (e.g., "put on a bold front"). It describes the act of presenting a confident or assertive appearance, especially when facing difficulties. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is correct and acceptable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a bold front" is an adjective phrase + noun that describes presenting an outward appearance of confidence, particularly when facing adversity. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and acceptable for use in written English. It's most commonly found in news and media contexts. While it conveys resilience, it's important to remember the phrase often implies concealed feelings, so context is key. For alternative expressions, consider using "courageous facade" or "confident stance".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

courageous facade

Emphasizes the external appearance of bravery, potentially masking inner feelings.

undaunted demeanor

Focuses on maintaining a fearless attitude, particularly in the face of adversity.

confident stance

Highlights a poised and self-assured posture or attitude.

brave face

Stresses concealing one's true emotions to appear strong.

assertive presence

Highlights a commanding and confident demeanor.

fearless outlook

Focuses on a perspective free from fear, promoting a proactive approach.

resolute expression

Emphasizes a firm and determined facial appearance.

determined attitude

Stresses a firm and unwavering mindset.

spirited defense

Highlights a lively and vigorous act of protecting or supporting something.

vigorous approach

Focuses on a dynamic and energetic way of dealing with something.

FAQs

How can I use "a bold front" in a sentence?

You can use "a bold front" to describe someone who is outwardly confident, especially when facing challenges. For example, "Despite her fear, she put on "a bold front" and addressed the crowd".

What's a good alternative to "a bold front"?

Alternatives include "brave face", "confident stance", or "undaunted demeanor". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always positive to present "a bold front"?

Not necessarily. While it can be a sign of resilience, presenting "a bold front" can also indicate someone is concealing their true feelings or avoiding addressing underlying issues.

What's the difference between "a bold front" and genuine confidence?

"A bold front" often suggests an outward display of confidence that may not reflect inner feelings. Genuine confidence, on the other hand, stems from a true belief in one's abilities and self-worth.