exhibit composure

[ɪɡˈzɪbɪt kəmˈpoʊʒər]
verb phrase
manter a compostura
1. to display or demonstrate calmness, self-control, and emotional stability in a situation
Despite the stressful circumstances, she managed to exhibit composure throughout the meeting.
Apesar das circunstâncias estressantes, ela conseguiu manter a compostura durante toda a reunião.
2. to remain calm and dignified, especially in difficult or embarrassing situations
The politician exhibited composure when confronted with difficult questions from the press.
O político manteve a compostura quando confrontado com perguntas difíceis da imprensa.
In both Brazilian and American contexts, exhibiting composure is highly valued in professional settings, public speaking, and crisis situations. In Brazil, this trait is often emphasized in formal business environments and diplomatic situations. Americans particularly admire composure in high-pressure contexts like sports, law enforcement, and politics. The phrase reflects a cultural appreciation for emotional restraint and professionalism across both cultures.
NYC Slang
keep it together / stay cool / don't flip
Synonyms / Sinônimos
maintain composurekeep one's coolstay calmremain composedkeep one's headdemonstrate poise
Antonyms / Antônimos
lose one's temperlose composurepanicfall apartbecome agitatedshow distress

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
manter a compostura
most common and standard usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
manter a compostura / ficar de cabeça fria
colloquial variant includes 'ficar de cabeça fria' (keep a cool head)
São Paulo
manter a compostura / manter a calma
often interchanged with 'manter a calma' (keep calm)
Portugal
manter a compostura / conservar a compostura
similar usage; 'conservar' is also used as an alternative verb

Related Words

composurepoiseserenitytranquilityequanimityself-controlcalmnessaplomb

Related Idioms & Phrases

keep one's chin up
keep a stiff upper lip
not bat an eye
stay cool as a cucumber
keep one's wits about one
manter o controle das emoções
não perder a cabeça
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