Save face: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Save face” mean?

"Save face" means to avoid embarrassment or humiliation by maintaining one's dignity or reputation.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He tried to save face by making a joke about his mistake.

Example

She apologized to save face after her rude comment.

Example

He quickly changed the subject to save face after his awkward stumble

Is “Save face” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Save 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 “Save face” effectively in context?

You can use "Save Face" to describe the act of avoiding embarrassment or humiliation in various situations. Here are three distinct situations where you can effectively use this phrase:

• 1. Social Interaction

  He made a mistake during his speech, but he quickly made a joke to save face and lighten the mood.

• 2. Apology

  After her rude comment, she apologized sincerely to save face and repair the relationship.

• 3. Awkward Situation

  After his awkward stumble, he quickly changed the subject to save face and divert attention from his mistake.

Similar phrases to “Save face”:

Keep up appearances

To maintain a certain image or reputation, especially in public

Example

Despite their financial troubles, they tried to keep up appearances by driving a luxury car.

Put on a brave face

To pretend to be strong or unaffected by a difficult situation

Example

She put on a brave face and smiled despite her disappointment.

Cover one's tracks

To hide or conceal evidence of one's actions or mistakes

Example

He tried to cover his tracks to avoid getting caught.

Sweep something under the rug

To ignore or conceal a problem or issue in order to avoid dealing with it

Example

They decided to sweep the issue under the rug instead of addressing it directly.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Save face” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Save Face" can be traced back to ancient Chinese culture. In Chinese society, maintaining one's reputation and avoiding public embarrassment is highly valued. The concept of 'face' refers to a person's social standing, dignity, and honor. To 'save face' means to avoid actions or situations that would cause loss of respect or reputation. This idiom has since been adopted in English to convey the same meaning.

Is “Save face” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Save Face" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where they try to avoid embarrassment or humiliation.

What tone does “Save face” have?

"Save Face" conveys a tone of self-preservation and social awareness. It implies the desire to maintain one's reputation and avoid public shame.

Can “Save face” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Save Face" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a universal concept of avoiding embarrassment. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal situations such as business meetings or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He tried to save face by making a joke about his mistake.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "save face"!' to imply the need to avoid embarrassment.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• avoid embarrassment
• maintain dignity
• preserve reputation
• prevent humiliation
• escape shame

Antonyms

• face the music
• embrace vulnerability
• accept humiliation
• acknowledge mistakes
• confront embarrassment