face somebody ↔ down phrasal verb especially American English (see also face)
to deal in a strong and confident way with someone who opposes you:
Harrison successfully faced down the mob of angry workers.

[TahlilGaran] Dictionary of Contemporary English ▲

face down
to confront someone boldly, to defy someone
We decided to face down our competitors and were able to stay in business.

The government decided to face down the striking transportation workers.

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲

face down
v. phr. To get the upper hand over someone by behaving forcefully; disconcert someone by the displaying of great self-assurance.
The night guard faced down the burglar by staring him squarely in the face.
Antonym: FACE UP.

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲

face down someone
to confront someone boldly, to defy someone
We decided to face down our competitors and were able to stay in business.

The government decided to face down the striking transportation workers.

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲