強(つよ)がり

つよがり
noun
bravado; bluff; putting on a brave face
emotionpersonality
1. bravado; bluff; false bravery
Pretending to be strong or unaffected when one is actually hurt, scared, or upset.
強(つよ)がりを言(い)わないで。
Don't pretend to be tough./Don't put on a brave face.
His bravado is painful to watch.
She's putting on a brave face even though she's really sad.
Let's stop putting on a brave face and honestly ask for help.
He said "I'm fine," but I think that was just bravado.

Forms

強(つよ)がる (to act tough) + り (noun-forming suffix) → acting tough = bravado

Common expressions

  • 強(つよ)がりを言(い)う - to say something brave/tough (when one doesn't feel it)
  • 強(つよ)がりをする - to put on a brave face
  • 強(つよ)がりをやめる - to stop pretending to be tough

Related words

Usage

強(つよ)がり describes hiding one's true vulnerable feelings behind a facade of strength. It often carries a slightly sympathetic or sad connotation.