egg on your face

Register · Informal Informal — used in casual, everyday conversation among friends and family. Avoid in formal writing or professional settings. CEFR B2

Post

Figurative meaning

to be embarrassed after being publicly wrong

Why this phrase?

A failed performer pelted with eggs is pictured with yolk smeared on his face; public embarrassment is shown the same way.

Example

“He predicted a landslide and ended up with egg on his face.”

Dictionary details

Component words

egg face

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

keep a straight face Neutral · CEFR B2

To remain serious and avoid smiling or laughing in an amusing or awkward moment.

lose face Neutral · CEFR B2

lose other people's respect through public embarrassment or humiliation

nest egg Neutral · CEFR B2

a sum of money saved for retirement or the future

save face Neutral · CEFR B2

to protect one's dignity or public reputation after embarrassment or failure

walk on eggshells Informal · CEFR B2

to act very carefully to avoid upsetting someone

chicken-and-egg problem Neutral · CEFR C1

a situation in which two things each depend on the other, so neither can get started

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

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