Example
“The revised announcement let both sides save face after the failed negotiation.”
Dictionary details
Related idioms
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
save for a rainy day
Neutral · CEFR B1
to put money aside for future emergencies
egg on your face
Informal · CEFR B2
to be embarrassed after being publicly wrong
bury the hatchet
Neutral · CEFR B1
to reconcile with someone and bring a quarrel to an end
kiss and make up
Neutral · CEFR B1
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.