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keep one's cool
/kiːp wʌnz kuːl/◆idiom
to stay calm and composed
Even when the argument got heated, she managed to keep her cool.
She remained calm and composed during the tense discussion.
informal
To remain calm and composed, especially in a stressful or difficult situation.
The negotiator kept his cool during the intense talks.
He stayed calm and professional despite the pressure.
She kept her cool when the car broke down in the middle of nowhere.
She handled the stressful situation without panicking.
This idiom is often used to describe someone who maintains their composure in challenging circumstances.
Collocations
keep one's cool under pressureto remain calm in stressful situations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage Tip
Use this phrase to describe someone who stays calm in stressful situations, such as during an argument, emergency, or high-pressure work environment.
Gold Rule
Context Rule
This idiom is informal and best used in casual or conversational settings. Avoid using it in formal or professional writing unless it fits the tone.
Word Origin
The phrase likely originated in the early 20th century, possibly influenced by the idea of 'cool' as a metaphor for calmness and self-control.
Usage Notes
This idiom is commonly used in informal and conversational contexts to describe someone who handles stress or difficult situations with calmness.
Word Breakdown
keep
to maintain
rootone's
possessive form indicating the subject
possessivecool
calm, composed, or unflustered
adjectiveEnglish Dictionary