display composure

USAGE SUMMARY

"display composure" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means to show or demonstrate calmness and control in a difficult situation. You can use it in situations where one maintains their composure under pressure. For example: Despite receiving criticism from her colleagues, Jane was able to display composure and respond calmly without getting upset. The politician was praised for his ability to display composure during a heated debate with his opponent.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Presumably Ferguson has a plan, for his admiration of Van Persie has been known for some time – as has his desire to introduce someone who can display composure in front of goal.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Even at her most nervous, during her boys' county debut, Edwards displayed composure and skill.

The Guardian - Sport

But younger teams such as Vancouver and the Los Angeles Clippers displayed composure in close victories over the Nets last week.

The New York Times - Sports

She displayed composure beyond her years during the second run, the fastest of the evening (1 minute 2.47 seconds), and won by an overall margin of 1.19 seconds.

The New York Times - Sports

Fury, eight inches taller than his opponent but weighing half a stone less, displayed composure when he refused to respond to Chisora's passivity in round eight.

The Guardian - Sport

Challinor was soon converted into a right-back at York, a position in which he displayed composure and an ability to start attacking moves.

Wikipedia

Instead, we'll display the composure that Scarlett Johansson does when she meets his character, also a famous actor, in "Lost in Translation".

The New Yorker

O'Neill understands that his team must display more composure and finesse when it comes to the crunch, particularly now that third-placed Hungary have cut the gap to two points, spearing the group to a fascinating climax.

The Guardian - Sport

After that mistake Thursday night, the Spurs displayed the composure for which they have become so widely admired.

The New York Times - Sports

In an all-Belgian rivalry and in a glimpse of the future, Clijsters, who will be 18 on Friday, displayed the composure of a veteran to defeat her good friend Justine Henin, 2-6, 7-5, 6-3.

The New York Times - Sports

Had Memphis Depay displayed any composure or even basic accuracy in front of goal then Van Gaal could have relaxed long before Mata made the game safe on the stroke of half-time.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "display composure" to describe someone's ability to remain calm and collected in challenging or stressful situations. This emphasizes a conscious effort to maintain control.

Common error

Avoid using "display composure" to describe inaction or indifference. Composure implies active management of emotions, not simply a lack of reaction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "display composure" functions as a verb phrase, where "display" acts as a transitive verb taking "composure" as its direct object. According to Ludwig AI, it describes the act of showing or demonstrating calmness and control.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "display composure" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that means showing calmness and control, especially in difficult situations. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and meaning. While not very common, as indicated by Ludwig, the phrase is most frequently found in News & Media sources. Related phrases include "show composure" and "maintain self control". When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects active emotional management rather than simple passivity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

show composure

Replaces "display" with "show", a direct synonym, maintaining the core meaning.

exhibit calmness

Substitutes "composure" with "calmness", focusing on the state of being calm.

maintain self-control

Shifts the focus to self-control, a key aspect of composure.

demonstrate poise

Replaces "composure" with "poise", emphasizing grace under pressure.

keep a cool head

Uses an idiomatic expression for staying calm in a crisis.

remain unruffled

Focuses on the lack of disturbance or agitation.

handle oneself with grace

Emphasizes the manner of conducting oneself with elegance and composure.

exercise restraint

Highlights the act of holding back emotions or reactions.

manage emotions effectively

Focuses on the effective management of one's emotional state.

not lose one's cool

Uses a colloquial expression for maintaining composure.

FAQs

How can I use "display composure" in a sentence?

You can use "display composure" to describe someone who remains calm and controlled in a difficult situation. For example, "Despite the intense pressure, she managed to display composure throughout the negotiation."

What are some alternatives to "display composure"?

Alternatives include "show composure", "maintain self control", or "exhibit calmness" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "display composure" or "show composure"?

Both "display composure" and "show composure" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice often depends on personal preference or the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "display composure" and "suppress emotions"?

"Display composure" implies managing emotions in a controlled manner, while "suppress emotions" suggests holding back or concealing feelings, which may not always be healthy or effective.