Meaning & Definition of Confront in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: To meet someone face to face, especially with hostile intent.

  Example Sentence: She had to confront her fears during the presentation.

• Definition: To bring something into the open so it can be dealt with.

  Example Sentence: He decided to confront the issue head-on rather than ignore it.

• Definition: To challenge someone in an argumentative manner.

  Example Sentence: The lawyer confronted the witness with contradictory evidence.

• Definition: To come up against something, especially obstacles.

  Example Sentence: They had to confront many challenges during their expedition.

Etymology

Origin: Middle English, from Latin 'confrontrare', meaning 'to face with'.

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• confront the issue: to deal with a problem directly
• confrontational attitude: an aggressive or combative approach towards others
• confront one's demons: to face one's personal issues or struggles

Translations

• Spanish: confrontar

• French: confronter

• German: konfrontieren

• Russian: противостоять

Related Words

• confrontation: a hostile or argumentative meeting or situation

• confrontational: tending to deal with situations in an aggressive way

• face-off: a confrontation or contest between two opponents

Slang Meanings of confront

• Meaning: To call someone out.

  Example Sentence: If you see him cheating, you should confront him.

• Meaning: To step up.

  Example Sentence: She decided to step up and confront her critics directly.