What does “Lose face” mean?
"Lose face" means to experience a loss of respect or reputation.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He cheated on his wife and really lost face in the community.
Example
After his team lost the championship, he felt like he lost face among his peers.
Example
She made a big mistake at work and is worried about losing face with her boss
Is “Lose face” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Lose face” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Lose face” effectively in context?
You can use "Lose Face" to describe a situation where someone experiences a loss of respect or reputation. It emphasizes the negative consequences of a particular action or mistake. For example, if someone cheats on their partner and the news spreads, you might say, 'He cheated on his wife and really lost face in the community.'
- 1Personal Relationships
After his team lost the championship, he felt like he lost face among his peers.
- 2Work
She made a big mistake at work and is worried about losing face with her boss.
- 3Social Circles
When she failed to keep her promise, she lost face with her friends.
Similar phrases to “Lose face”:
Damage one's reputation
To harm or diminish one's reputation or standing
Example
His scandalous behavior damaged his reputation in the industry.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Lose face” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Lose Face" can be traced back to East Asian cultures, particularly in China. In these cultures, maintaining one's reputation and social standing is highly valued. 'Face' refers to one's reputation, dignity, and honor. Losing face means experiencing a loss of respect or reputation.
Is “Lose face” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Lose Face" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation, especially in East Asian cultures. However, it is also understood and used in other cultures to describe a loss of respect or reputation.
What tone does “Lose face” have?
"Lose Face" conveys a tone of disappointment and concern. It highlights the negative impact of a particular action or mistake on one's reputation or social standing.
Can “Lose face” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Lose Face" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that describes a universal concept of losing respect or reputation. You can use it in conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He cheated on his wife and really lost face in the community.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'She made a big mistake and lost face.' to imply the loss of respect or reputation.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- suffer a blow to one's reputation
- experience a loss of respect
- be discredited
- face public humiliation
- be shamed
Antonyms
- maintain one's reputation
- gain respect
- enhance one's standing
- earn admiration
- build a good reputation
