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stand up to

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stand up to someone or something

to take a stand against someone or something; to hold one's ground or principles in the face of a challenge by someone or something. He is a tough customer, and you have to learn to stand up to him. Can the witness stand up to questioning by the prosecution?

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stand up to somebody/something

to oppose someone or something without fear I know Jim would stand up to absolutely anyone, even his boss, if he believed he was right about something.

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stand up to

Confront fearlessly, oppose boldly, as in You've got to stand up to the boss if you want him to respect you. [Early 1600s]

See also: stand, up

stand up to

To confront fearlessly; face up to.

See also: stand, up