lose face

/lˈuːz fˈeɪs/

[phrase]

to lose face

[PHRASE]

to do something that causes others to have less respect for one

What is the origin of the idiom "lose face" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "lose face" is rooted in East Asian cultures, where "face" refers to one's social standing and reputation. In these cultures, losing face can have significant social consequences, leading to shame, embarrassment, and loss of respect. The phrase has since been adopted into English and is commonly used to describe any situation where someone experiences a loss of respect or prestige, whether it's in a personal or professional context.

Examples

1. The company lost face when their highly publicized product launch failed to meet expectations.

2. The politician lost face after being caught in a scandal, causing their once-loyal supporters to turn against them.

3. Well, the regime has to respond, or else they will lose face.

4. Then he decided not to do it without congressional support, and he basically was losing face.

Nearby words

right side of the tracks

loss of face

lose head

lose cool