face up to

face up to  {v. phr.}

1. To bravely confront a person or a challenge; admit.

Jack doesn't want to face up to the fact that Helen doesn't love him anymore.

Jane cannot face up to her mother-in-law who always wins every argument they have.

2. To confess something to someone; confess to having done something.

Jim had to face up to having stolen a sweater from the department store.

Contrast: FACE DOWN.