fingir estar feliz; fazer-se de feliz
1. To pretend or feign happiness; to behave as if one is happy when one may not actually be
She had to act happy at the party even though she was feeling sad inside.
Ela teve que fingir estar feliz na festa mesmo estando triste por dentro.
2. To perform or display happiness through one's behavior, demeanor, or expression
The children were asked to act happy for the family photo.
Pediram às crianças que fizessem-se de felizes para a foto de família.
In both American and Brazilian cultures, 'act happy' reflects social conventions where individuals may mask their true emotions in public or professional settings. In Brazil, there's a cultural emphasis on 'jogo de cintura' (flexibility/playing along), making this expression particularly relevant in social situations. In the USA, 'putting on a happy face' is a common idiom reflecting the cultural value placed on positivity and social harmony.
NYC Slang
fake it; put on a happy face; play along
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