save face
/seɪv feɪs/
Meaning
This expression means to avoid embarrassment, humiliation, or a loss of reputation and respect in public or in front of others. It refers to taking action or making excuses to preserve one's dignity when a mistake has been made or a failure has occurred. It is common in both casual social situations and formal diplomatic or business contexts.
Examples
-
He admitted his mistake quickly to save face before the media could criticize him.
He admitted his mistake quickly to save face before the media could criticize him.
-
The company offered a full refund to save face after the public relations disaster.
The company offered a full refund to save face after the public relations disaster.
-
Instead of admitting he was lost, he said he wanted to take the scenic route just to save face.
Instead of admitting he was lost, he said he wanted to take the scenic route just to save face.
-
She let him take credit for the idea to help him save face in front of the boss.
She let him take credit for the idea to help him save face in front of the boss.
-
The compromise allowed both political parties to save face and end the argument.
The compromise allowed both political parties to save face and end the argument.
Common Mistakes
-
✗ He tried to save his face by blaming others.
✓ He tried to save face by blaming others.
Do not use possessive pronouns (like 'his', 'her', 'my') with this idiom; it is always 'save face'.
-
✗ She made an excuse for saving face.
✓ She made an excuse to save face.
Use the infinitive form 'to save face' when expressing purpose, not 'for saving face'.
Related Expressions
Practice
-
Rather than admitting he forgot her birthday, he pretended the gift was still in the mail to ___.
💡 To avoid embarrassment or losing respect.
Show answer
save face
-
The manager resigned quietly, which allowed him to ___ instead of being fired publicly.
💡 Preserve his dignity or reputation.
Show answer
save face