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face up

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face up (to someone or something)

to confront with courage someone or something representing a threat or unpleasantness. You are simply going to have to admit your mistake and face up to the boss. You must face up to the authorities if you have done something wrong.

See also: face, up

face up

see under face down.

See also: face, up

face up

v.

1. To position something so that its front surface is oriented upward: The designer faced the mirror up to reflect the sunlight.

2. face up to To confront an unpleasant situation; accept responsibility, blame, or a particular reality: The manager finally faced up to the problem of theft.

See also: face, up