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swallow the pill

VERB
bite the bullet
Synonyms
WEAK
be forced bow to fate cross the Rubicon face the music have no choice know no alternative leap into the breach pay the piper seize the opportunity stand up and take it suck it up take it take one's medicine take the rap
VERB
face the music
Synonyms
WEAK
be punished bite the bullet come to grips with face the facts face up to face up to it grin and bear it look square in the eye make one's bed and lie on it pay the piper take one's lumps take one's medicine take the consequences

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The only thing to do, says Shack, is accept that cancelation “could be a reality, and go ahead and swallow the pill now.”

From Slate • Jul. 20, 2022

"It made me think 'just enjoy the day. You're not involved, swallow the pill and get on with it.'"

From BBC • Apr. 2, 2022

As I was preparing to swallow the pill in the clinic, a compassionate nurse walked me through the process and assured me that I would be OK.

From US News • Oct. 2, 2015

I swallow the pill down and reach for the glass of water already waiting for me.

From Nature • Jun. 16, 2015

I swallow the pill of my doom and clear my throat.

From "Odd One Out" by Nic Stone

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