face the music

[Aieda_Chiang]

Does the phrase "face the music" have two different meanings: "face the difficulties bravely" and “ face the punishment you deserve”?

[curmudgeon]

It means to accept the consequences of your actions or omissions. If you don't do your homework you will 'face the music' from your teacher. So your second explanation is correct. It has no ther meaning I am aware of.

Your first suggestion is 'To put a brave face on'; To face adversity without showing your emotions

[BobK]

Originally Posted by Aieda_Chiang

Does the phrase "face the music" have two different meanings: "face the difficulties bravely" and “ face the punishment you deserve”?

I was told once that the expression derives from the custom - in English churches, and maybe others - to put the organ at the back of the church. Soloists in the congregation would turn round and face the music; this involved looking at everyone and exposing your efforts to their judgement. I'm not sure if this is true - but I won't be surprised if it's explained somewhere on the net. And whether true or not, it's an interesting story.

b