[save] face
1
to take action or make a statement in order to avoid embarrassment, humiliation, or loss of respect
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.
- After the poor performance, the athlete saved her face by focusing on her training and winning the next championship.
- The politician tried to save face after a scandal by apologizing and promising to make amends for any wrongdoing.
- He apologized publicly to save face after his mistake.
- She lied about quitting to save face, though she was actually fired.
- In order to save face, he downplayed the severity of the failure.