appear calm

[əˈpɪr kɑːm]
verb phrase
parecer calmo/a; aparentar calma
1. to give the impression or look of being peaceful, composed, and untroubled, whether genuinely or superficially
Despite his nervousness, he managed to appear calm during the presentation.
Apesar de seu nervosismo, ele conseguiu parecer calmo durante a apresentação.
2. to seem serene or tranquil in manner, demeanor, or expression
She appeared calm even though the situation was chaotic around her.
Ela parecia calma mesmo que a situação fosse caótica ao seu redor.
In both Brazilian and American contexts, appearing calm is highly valued in professional and social settings. In Brazil, there's an appreciation for 'jogo de cintura' (flexibility/composure), while in the US, 'keeping cool under pressure' is a core business value. This phrase reflects the importance of emotional regulation and self-control across both cultures.
NYC Slang
keep it cool; play it cool; act chill
Synonyms / Sinônimos
seem composedlook sereneappear composedseem peacefullook unruffled
Antonyms / Antônimos
appear anxiousseem agitatedappear nervouslook franticseem distressed

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
parecer calmo/a; aparentar calma
most common usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
parecer tranquilo/a; ficar de boa
'ficar de boa' is more colloquial slang
São Paulo
parecer calmo/a; manter a calma
formal business contexts prefer 'manter a calma'
Portugal
parecer calmo/a; dar a impressão de calma
Portuguese tends to use 'dar a impressão' more frequently

Related Words

composureserenitytranquilitydemeanorpoiserestraint

Related Idioms & Phrases

keep a stiff upper lip
keep one's cool
maintain composure
não perder a cabeça
manter a sangue frio
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