The word "stoic" refers to a person who is able to tolerate pain or hardship without showing their feelings or complaining. They remain calm and composed even during difficult situations.
When to use it
The word "stoic" is usually used to describe someone who remains calm and unemotional in difficult or challenging situations. This term is derived from the ancient Greek philosophy of Stoicism, which emphasized self-control, inner strength, and resilience in the face of adversity.
When we say that someone is stoic, we are often referring to a person who is able to maintain a sense of composure and dignity in the midst of hardship, pain or loss. This could be someone who has just received bad news, but doesn't break down or fall apart. For example, if a friend were to receive the news that they had failed an important exam, but remained calm and composed, we might describe them as being stoic.
Another situation where we might use the term "stoic" is when someone appears to be indifferent or unaffected by their surroundings or circumstances. This could be a person who does not react to the noise or commotion around them, but remains focused on their own thoughts or work. For example, if a co-worker starts shouting or making a big scene, but another colleague carries on working as usual, we might describe him or her as being stoic.
Example sentences
- Despite the intense pain, the soldier remained stoic and refused to show any sign of weakness.
- Erica's stoic attitude allowed her to handle the unexpected news of her father's passing with tremendous grace.
- The stoic professor didn't flinch when a student challenged his expertise on the subject matter.
- The priest remained stoic throughout the entire religious ceremony, demonstrating his deep convictions and unwavering faith.
- The athlete's stoic demeanor enabled her to push through the grueling workout and achieve a personal best record.
- Despite the enormous pressure, the politician remained stoic during the high profile debate and maintained her composure throughout.
- Even though her heart was breaking, the mother remained stoic as she watched her child move out of the family home.
- The stoic businessman refused to let a few setbacks derail his ambitious goals and continued to push forward with determination.
- Despite the endless criticism, the artist remained stoic and undeterred in her pursuit of creative excellence.
- The stoic doctor maintained a calm demeanor as he delivered the devastating news of a terminal illness to his patient.
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