maintain composure

USAGE SUMMARY

"maintain composure" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe someone trying to remain calm in a difficult situation, or to remain in control of their emotions. For example, "Janet had to maintain her composure during the interview in order to make a good impression."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

So therefore I will maintain composure".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

And especially, maintain composure: never appear flustered or uncertain.

The New York Times

But more often, people remain buttoned up, dry-eyed, determined to maintain composure.

The New York Times - Health

Drew struggled to maintain composure, although occasionally, a tone of voice revealed just how tense the situation was becoming.

The New York Times - Magazine

Everybody kept trying, but it was as if there was something infectious about the inability to maintain composure.

The Guardian - Sport

Technical issues of law and procedure aside, it is virtually impossible to maintain composure and focus when you yourself are the subject of litigation.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

They learn from their father about maintaining composure".

The New York Times - Sports

That is left to Mrs. Salem de Villamil, who is, she said, better at maintaining composure than her husband is.

The New York Times

Then it's a matter of maintaining composure and civility on the job.

Forbes

Other times it's about maintaining composure when dealing with the mental stresses and strategic challenges that come with each of the many revolutions.

TechCrunch

But he maintained composure and didn't appear interested.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "maintain composure" when you want to emphasize the effort required to remain calm in a challenging situation.

Common error

While "maintain composure" is widely applicable, be mindful of its slightly formal tone. In very casual conversations, consider using more relaxed alternatives like "keep cool" or "stay calm".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "maintain composure" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as the predicate of a sentence. It describes the act of preserving a state of calmness, as supported by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

13%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "maintain composure" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that describes the act of remaining calm and in control, particularly under pressure. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and applicability across various contexts, especially within News & Media. While synonyms like "keep calm" or "stay cool" exist, "maintain composure" carries a slightly more formal tone. Use it when you want to emphasize the effort required to remain calm. Be mindful of the context and audience to ensure appropriateness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

keep calm

Focuses more on the immediate state of calmness, rather than the act of maintaining it.

stay calm

Similar to "keep calm", emphasizing a continuous state of calmness.

remain calm

Suggests a more passive state of calmness, as opposed to actively maintaining it.

keep cool

An informal way to say remain calm, often used in casual contexts.

stay cool

Similar to "keep cool", it's an informal way of suggesting calmness, suitable for everyday conversations.

keep your cool

Casual way of saying you should stay in control of your emotions

keep your head

Implies staying rational and clear-headed in a crisis.

hold it together

Suggests preventing oneself from falling apart emotionally.

keep a stiff upper lip

An idiomatic expression for suppressing emotions and remaining stoic.

control yourself

Highlights the act of exerting control over one's emotions or behavior.

FAQs

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

You can use "maintain composure" to describe someone's ability to remain calm, for example: "Despite the stressful situation, she managed to "maintain composure"".

What does it mean to "maintain composure"?

To "maintain composure" means to stay calm and in control of your emotions, especially in a difficult situation.

What are some synonyms for "maintain composure"?

Alternatives to "maintain composure" include "keep calm", "stay calm", or "keep your cool", depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to try and "maintain composure"?

While "maintaining composure" is often seen as a virtue, there are situations where expressing genuine emotion is more appropriate and authentic. Context matters.