Turn the other cheek

usgb
verb phrase

To react calmly or not at all, when someone has insulted you or hurt you.

Although he was clearly upset by the critics, he turned the other cheek and continued his work.
Visual representation of "turn the other cheek" - To react calmly or not at all, when someone has insulted you or hurt you

Often appears as...

  • he turns the other cheek
  • she turned the other cheek

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "turn the other cheek"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Non-Violent Response

Used to express a deliberate choice to not react with aggression or revenge.

Illustration for Non-Violent Response
The teacher was harsh, but I chose to turn the other cheek.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Inner Strength

Shows emotional restraint and maturity in challenging situations.

Illustration for Inner Strength
After being insulted, he calmly turned the other cheek.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Avoid Escalation

Advises preventing a situation from becoming worse by not responding to provocation.

Illustration for Avoid Escalation
They yelled at me, but to avoid a fight, I turned the other cheek.
Visual representation of the word "Turn the other cheek"

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