facework

[feɪswɜːrk]

facework Definition

the actions taken by a person to save or restore their own or someone else's social reputation or image, especially in a difficult or embarrassing situation.

Using facework: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "facework" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    She did some facework to smooth things over with her boss after the mistake she made.

  • Example

    He used facework to avoid offending his colleague during the meeting.

facework Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for facework

  • impression management
  • reputation management
  • face-saving behavior

Phrases with facework

  • actions taken to enhance one's own or someone else's positive social identity or status

    Example

    He used positive facework to make a good impression on his new boss.

  • actions taken to avoid threatening or damaging one's own or someone else's negative social identity or status

    Example

    She used negative facework to avoid hurting her friend's feelings when she declined the invitation.

  • facework strategies

    specific techniques or behaviors used to manage one's own or someone else's social image or reputation

    Example

    The book discusses various facework strategies that can be used in different situations.

📌

Summary: facework in Brief

The term 'facework' [feɪswɜːrk] refers to the actions taken to save or restore one's or someone else's social reputation or image, especially in difficult or embarrassing situations. It includes positive and negative facework, as well as specific strategies for managing social identity. Examples of facework include smoothing things over with a boss or avoiding offending a colleague.