Be staring something in the face

usgb
phrase

To be very close to a problem but not recognize or deal with it.

We need to address climate change; we are staring catastrophe in the face!
Visual representation of "be staring something in the face" - To be very close to a problem but not recognize or deal with it

Often appears as...

  • staring disaster in the face
  • staring defeat in the face

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "be staring something in the face"
LampPro Tip 1/2

Imminent Problem

Suggests a pressing issue is very close and unavoidable, yet unrecognized.

Illustration for Imminent Problem
With their resources depleting, they were staring a crisis in the face.
LampPro Tip 2/2

Unacknowledged Issue

Indicates a lack of action despite being close to a serious problem.

Illustration for Unacknowledged Issue
He's failing most of his classes and is staring failure in the face.
Visual representation of the word "Be staring something in the face"

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