# face the music

> English word · Verb · IPA /ˌfeɪs ðə ˈmjuːzɪk/

## Definitions
1. To accept or confront the unpleasant consequences of one's actions.

## Etymology
Origin uncertain; possible sources which have been suggested include the following:
* A performer on a stage facing the music from the orchestra pit when confronting a possibly hostile audience.
* The historical act of a soldier who was dishonourably discharged from military service being paraded in front of other soldiers to the sound of a drum or music.
* A soldier facing the noise of battle (music being military slang for the sound of gunfire or other ordnance).

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/face-the-music