[bite] the bullet
1
to start to deal with an inevitable challenge or difficulty
The idiom "bite the bullet" has its origins in the practice of medicine during the 19th century. Before modern anesthesia, soldiers and patients would bite on a bullet or a similar object to endure the pain during surgery or other medical procedures. Figuratively, the idiom is used to describe the act of facing a difficult or unpleasant situation with courage and determination, even though it may be uncomfortable or painful.
- I know she's disappointed to have not gotten her dream job, but the sooner she bites the bullet and accepts it, the sooner she can move on.
- Vik was diagnosed with second stage cancer but he didn’t want to get chemotherapy.By the will of his wife, he bit the bullet.
- She knew she had to confront her fears and bite the bullet to speak in front of a large audience.
- He had to bite the bullet and admit his mistake, even though it was embarrassing.