save face

/sˈeɪv fˈeɪs/

[phrase]

to save face

[PHRASE]

to take action or make a statement in order to avoid embarrassment, humiliation, or loss of respect

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

The phrase "save face" originated in East Asia, particularly in China and Japan, where the concept of "face" refers to one's social standing, reputation, and dignity. In these cultures, losing face is seen as a serious matter, and people will often try hard to avoid it. The phrase was later adopted into English through diplomatic and trade relations with East Asia. The idiom is used to describe the act of avoiding public embarrassment or humiliation by taking actions that preserve one's dignity, reputation, or honor. It implies that someone has made a mistake or is in an awkward or difficult situation, and they are attempting to minimize the damage to their reputation or social standing.

Examples

1. The politician tried to save face after a scandal by apologizing and promising to make amends for any wrongdoing.

2. I mean, I think to save face, they have to do what they can to fix Cyberpunk, but how much resources they dedicate to premium DLC expansions to the online mode is still kind of up in the air.

3. We’re so convinced that we’re great, because whether things go right or wrong, this bias saves face.

4. There is growing concern that the Taliban have no interest in peace at all, that they may be simply going through the motions to help America save face as it departs, and could still decide they can topple the government when the U.S. leaves.

Nearby words

have seen better days

up the river