make a stand

1. Hold firm against something or someone, as in The government was determined to make a stand against all forms of terrorism. This idiom transfers the early meaning of holding ground against an enemy to other issues. [c. 1600]

Example Sentences

"We need to make a stand," she said.

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These features would serve as firebreaks, places for first responders to make a stand and refuge for fleeing residents.

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"I will not let the actions of one individual ruin what was a fantastic day for the team and our supporters but it is not okay and I was determined to make a stand," the Jamaica defender said.

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Liverpool defender Taylor Hinds says she is "determined to make a stand" after being subjected to "sexually inappropriate comments" from a fan during her side's Women's FA Cup victory at Arsenal on Sunday.

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If they are willing to make a stand, there is plenty of work to do, he added.

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Related Words

• allow 
• challenge 
• confront 
• deal with 
• encounter 
• endure 
• experience 
• fight 
• meet 
• oppose 
• risk 
• run into 
• suffer 
• take