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to keep one's head down
01
to prevent trouble by trying not to become involved in something or draw attention to oneself
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "keep one's head down" and when to use it?
The idiom "keep one's head down" likely originates from the literal act of lowering one's head to avoid being seen or targeted, especially in situations where visibility might lead to danger or unwanted attention. In its figurative use, the expression suggests a person avoiding trouble or staying out of the spotlight to maintain safety or avoid drawing attention to themselves, especially in challenging or risky circumstances.
Example
After the embarrassing incident at work, Sarah decided to keep her head down and focus on her tasks to regain her colleagues' trust.
In a tough neighborhood, it's advisable to keep your head down to avoid unnecessary confrontations.
During times of political unrest, journalists often have to keep their heads down to ensure their safety while reporting on the ground.
In a competitive job market, it's essential to keep your head down, work hard, and prove your skills to advance in your career.
The undercover detective had to keep his head down while infiltrating the criminal organization to gather information discreetly.
