Face the music
/feɪs ðə ˈmjuːzɪk/
Definition
The meaning: Face the music is a phrase used to indicate that one must confront the consequences of their actions, especially when those consequences are unpleasant.
La signification: Cette expression signifie que l'on doit faire face aux conséquences de ses actes, surtout lorsque ces conséquences sont désagréables.
Note: This phrase is often used when someone has to deal with a difficult situation or outcome as a result of their choices.
Word Analysis
French synonyms
» Affronter la réalité
» Faire face aux conséquences
» Encaisser le coup
A: Il a fait une erreur et maintenant il doit l'assumer.
B: Il doit faire face aux conséquences !
English synonyms
» Face the consequences
» Confront the reality
» Accept the outcome
A: She made a mistake at work.
B: Well, she has to accept the outcome!
Example Dialogue
Mohale: "I believe we should take responsibility for our actions, it's important for our integrity."
Lemohi: "But facing the truth can be uncomfortable."
Mohale: "We need to face the music. It’s the only way to move forward."
Lemohi: "I see your point, let's deal with it together!"
Etymology
Origin: The phrase "Face the music" is believed to have originated from the theater, where performers must confront the audience and the reality of their performance. It has since evolved to signify confronting the consequences of one's actions in various contexts.
Audience
The phrase "Face the music" is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to indicate the need to confront the consequences of one's actions. It is widely understood in English-speaking countries and is suitable for everyday conversation.
When to use: Use this phrase when you acknowledge that you must deal with the repercussions of a situation, especially if it is uncomfortable. For example: "After the mistake was made, it was time to face the music." It is appropriate for both spoken and written communication.
Dictionary Meaning
Cambridge says the expression means "to accept criticism or punishment for something you have done." Here's the example of use:
If she lied to me, then she'll just have to face the music."
News Snippet
"Being a Comrade demands of you to be principled such that you can denounce wrongdoing and call for harsher punishment even if it is your own girlfriend or brother who must face the music. Hence the adage 'without fear or favour.'" Read the full article at The Daily Maverick
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Common Idioms and Expressions
Face the music: To confront the unpleasant consequences of one's actions.
Example: "After missing the deadline, he had to face the music."
Take responsibility: To accept the consequences of one's actions.
Example: "She decided to take responsibility for her mistakes."
Own up: To admit to a mistake or wrongdoing.
Example: "He needs to own up to his errors."
Accept the consequences: To acknowledge the results of one's actions.
Example: "If you break the rules, you must accept the consequences."
Face the facts: To confront the reality of a situation.
Example: "It's time to face the facts about our finances."
Deal with it: To confront and manage a difficult situation.
Example: "You can't avoid it; you just have to deal with it.
Come to terms: To reach an understanding or acceptance of a difficult situation.
Example: "He finally had to come to terms with his choices."
Pay the piper: To face the consequences of one's actions, especially after enjoying benefits.
Example: "After the party, they had to pay the piper when the bills came."
Pay the fiddler: To face, accept, or suffer repercussions for one's actions or words.
Example: "After so much drinking, she's gonna pay the fiddler on Monday morning."
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