Definition

1. Verb:
   • To raise one's face/head: To lift one's head upward, typically from a lowered or bowed position. This action often signifies a change in posture, attention, or emotional state, such as looking up, regaining confidence, or facing a situation directly.
   • To hold one's head high: To behave or carry oneself with pride, dignity, or defiance, especially after a difficulty or in the face of challenge.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Cô ấy ngẩng mặt nhìn lên bầu trời đầy sao. (She raised her face to look at the starry sky.)
  • Sau lời động viên, cậu bé ngẩng mặt lên, mắt đã hết nước mắt. (After the encouragement, the boy raised his head, his eyes now free of tears.)
  • Dù thất bại, anh ấy vẫn ngẩng mặt bước đi. (Even though he failed, he still walked with his head held high.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase often carries a strong connotation of emotional or psychological change. It is not merely a physical action but can symbolize stopping crying, ceasing to be ashamed, gathering courage, or preparing to confront something.
  • Ngẩng mặt đối diện với sự thật. (To raise one's head to face the truth.)

Variants and Related Words

• Ngẩng đầu (v): To raise one's head. A very close synonym, sometimes used more for the physical action, while "ngẩng mặt" can emphasize the face and expression.
  • Nghe thấy tiếng gọi, nó ngẩng đầu lên. (Hearing the call, it raised its head.)

Synonyms

• To look up: To direct one's gaze upward.
• To lift one's head: To raise the head physically.
• To hold one's head high: To display pride or confidence.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Ngẩng mặt lên: The addition of "lên" (up) is very common and emphasizes the upward motion.
  • Hãy ngẩng mặt lên và tiến về phía trước. (Hold your head up and move forward.)
• The concept is central to idioms about pride and resilience, such as the sentiment expressed in "ngẩng cao đầu" (to hold one's head high).