'Lady-like' Portman avoids arguments

Rex Features

Natalie Portman has admitted that she often internalises her frustrations to avoid arguments.

The actress, who recently split from musician boyfriend Devendra Banhart, believes it is more "lady-like" to keep quiet in potentially volatile situations.

"They say women often preface their statements with: 'This might sound stupid, but …' It sort of tempers what you are going to say," she told US Elle. "It takes the edge off so you can still be seen as lady-like. I think I have a lot of that in me."

She added: "I'm very non-confrontational. I'm definitely a pleaser."