kiːp ə streɪt feɪs
Body Parts
informal
beginner
- Literally:
- To maintain a face with no expression
What does "keep a straight face" mean?
- To avoid laughing or showing emotion
- To maintain a serious expression despite finding something funny
Examples
- I couldn't keep a straight face during his ridiculous excuse.
- She kept a straight face while telling the joke.
- It was hard to keep a straight face when he walked in.
Origin
A 'straight' face is one without curves or expressions—neutral and unexpressive. Used when trying to hide amusement or other emotions.
How to use it
Often used when something is funny or absurd. Common in describing reactions to humor.
Similar expressions
not laugh
maintain composure
stay serious
Opposites
crack up
burst out laughing
lose composure
Related idioms
- keep an eye on
To watch or monitor something carefully
- heart of gold
A very kind, generous, and caring nature
- caught red-handed
Caught in the act of doing something wrong
- keep your chin up
To stay positive and not be discouraged
- wrap your head around something
To understand something complex
- all ears
Listening attentively and eagerly
Use it in a practice answer
Try "keep a straight face" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.