Pronunciation: [fˈe͡ɪs ˈʌp] (IPA) 
The phrase "face up" can be spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet as [feɪs ʌp]. It consists of two syllables: "face" and "up". The first syllable is pronounced as "fay-s" with a long "a" sound, while the second syllable is pronounced as "uh-p" with a schwa sound. "Face up" is commonly used to describe the orientation of an object or person, with the front or top side facing upward.
"Face up" is a phrasal verb that is commonly used to describe the action of turning something so that its front or upper side is visible or displayed. It can refer to physical objects such as cards, documents, or objects, as well as to non-physical things like challenges, problems, or facts.
In the literal sense, when someone or something is faced up, it means that they have been flipped or positioned in a way that their top or front side is showing. For example, when playing cards, if a player "faces up" a card, they reveal it so that others can see it.
In a figurative sense, "face up" implies confronting or dealing with a situation or problem openly, honestly, or directly. It often suggests the need to confront difficult or uncomfortable circumstances instead of avoiding them. For instance, if someone admits a mistake and faces up to its consequences, they take responsibility and address the outcome honestly.
The expression can also be used to describe an individual's attitude or behavior towards challenges or adversity. It suggests courage, determination, or resilience in confronting and tackling obstacles head-on. When faced with a difficult task, if someone "faces up" to it, they demonstrate bravery and determination to address it directly.
In summary, "face up" refers to the action of turning or positioning something so that its front or upper side is visible. It can also denote confronting challenges or openly dealing with situations, implying honesty, courage, and resilience in facing difficulties.
The word "face up" can be subdivided into two separate words: "face" and "up".
- "Face" comes from the Old French word "face" or "fache" which meant "face" or "countenance". This term can be traced back to the Latin word "facies" meaning "appearance" or "form".
- "Up" comes from the Old English word "upp", which has Germanic roots. It originally referred to a direction or position above, higher than, or on high.
When combined, "face up" became an idiomatic expression indicating that something is directed or positioned with the face or front side upward, facing upward, or towards the viewer.
