lose face
Meaning
To be embarrassed or humiliated; to suffer a loss of respect or social standing.
Origin
From the concept of “face” meaning one’s public image or dignity, influenced by East Asian notions of face (e.g., Chinese 面子/面) and popularized in English from the late 19th–20th centuries.
Notes
Often about public embarrassment or diminished respect, especially in social/business contexts. It focuses on reputation more than feelings alone.
Examples
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He apologized publicly so his team wouldn’t lose face.
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If you correct her in front of clients, she may feel she’s losing face.
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The company offered a refund to avoid losing face after the mistake went viral.
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Rather than admit he was wrong, he doubled down because he didn’t want to lose face.
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They agreed to a compromise that let both sides walk away without losing face.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed phrase: typically “lose face,” “lost face,” “will lose face.” Often used with “make/cause someone to lose face” and prepositions like “in front of” or “with.”
Synonyms
- be embarrassed
- be humiliated
- be disgraced
- suffer a loss of face
Antonyms
- save face
- maintain dignity
- keep one's pride