English idiom

save face

Register · Neutral CEFR B2

Post

Figurative meaning

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

Word picture

A person's outward face is pictured as public dignity that can be protected from visible embarrassment.

Example

“The revised announcement let both sides save face after the failed negotiation.”

Dictionary details

Component words

save face

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

keep a straight face

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

lose face

lose other people's respect through public embarrassment or humiliation

save for a rainy day

to put money aside for future emergencies

egg on your face

to be embarrassed after being publicly wrong

bury the hatchet

to reconcile with someone and bring a quarrel to an end

kiss and make up

to reconcile and become friendly again after an argument

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.

External links

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