Translation guide
To act confidently or bravely even when feeling afraid, nervous, or uncertain. Japanese expresses this through idiomatic phrases, verbs for pretending, and descriptions of outward demeanor.
To appear courageous or unfazed when actually scared or worried.
Literally 'to put up a bluff/bravado'. The most direct equivalent for putting on a bold front, often implying a show of strength to hide weakness.
He was scared inside, but he put on a bold front and laughed.
Verb meaning 'to act tough' or 'to pretend to be strong'. Commonly used when someone hides fear or sadness behind a brave face.
She put on a bold front and said, 'I'm fine.'
To feign calmness or indifference. '装う' means to pretend or put on an appearance. Slightly more formal/literary than 強がる.
He was shaken, but he put on a bold front and acted calm.
Literally 'to endure being scared'. A more straightforward description of suppressing fear, less idiomatic but clear.
The child put on a bold front and entered the dark room, holding back his fear.
To project self-assurance in a situation where one lacks confidence or knowledge.
Literally 'to pretend to have confidence'. A direct and natural way to express putting on a bold front in terms of self-assurance.
He put on a bold front and started the presentation, pretending to be confident.
To behave in a dignified, imposing manner. Often used when someone acts confidently despite inner doubts. '堂々と' means 'with composure/confidence'.
To take an aggressive or bold stance, often in negotiations or confrontations. Implies projecting strength even if one's position is weak.
In negotiations, it's better to put on a bold front.
To keep up a courageous appearance when facing hardship, pain, or emotional distress.
To behave in a stout-hearted, brave manner. Often used for someone enduring grief or difficulty without showing weakness.
She put on a bold front, holding back her sorrow and acting bravely.
Literally 'not to utter complaints/weakness'. To refrain from showing vulnerability, maintaining a strong exterior.
To take a resolute, firm attitude. Formal and often used in written contexts. Implies unwavering composure under pressure.
虚勢を張る emphasizes a deliberate bluff or show of strength, often in competitive or confrontational situations. 強がる is more about personal emotional concealment, like pretending not to be hurt or scared. 強がる is more common in everyday speech.
He was weak but put on a bold front and picked a fight.
Even after the breakup, she put on a bold front and didn't cry.
Do not translate 'put on a bold front' word-for-word as '大胆な前線を着る' or similar. These make no sense in Japanese. Use the idiomatic expressions provided.
She was nervous inside, but she put on a bold front and acted with composure.
He put on a bold front and persevered without ever complaining.
He put on a bold front and took a resolute stance against the criticism.