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stand up and be counted

Idioms  
  1. Reveal one's convictions or opinions, especially when it requires courage to do so. For example, Stop muttering your complaints about the music; stand up and be counted if you want something changed. The counted in this expression alludes to having one's vote on a matter acknowledged. [c. 1900]


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"I've felt extremely isolated, and definitely feel that I am regarded as a pariah in the NHS. I think there is an unwritten rule that you do not take the NHS to court. You don't stand up and be counted. You take the bribe, you keep quiet and you move on."

From BBC

"You have to stand up and be counted and we didn't do it well enough," Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe said following the 2-2 draw in the Champions League.

From BBC

"But I think right now it's time to stand up and be counted, and in my mind, that means buying local and supporting Canadian business."

From BBC

As Georgetown professor Michael Kazin told the New York Times last year: “I do think if you are going to demonstrate, and it’s something you feel deeply about, you should be willing to stand up and be counted.”

From Slate

Son said the players also need to stand up and be counted.

From BBC