Translation guide
The English phrase 'save face' refers to avoiding embarrassment or preserving one's reputation. In Japanese, this concept is deeply rooted in social harmony and is expressed through various words and phrases that emphasize maintaining dignity, avoiding shame, and protecting one's public image.
To act in a way that prevents loss of respect or social standing, often in a difficult situation.
A direct equivalent meaning 'to keep face' or 'to preserve one's honor'. Used in formal or serious contexts.
彼は謝罪することで面目を保った。
He saved face by apologizing.
To escape an embarrassing moment by making an excuse or taking a graceful exit.
Means 'to patch up the situation' or 'to smooth things over'. Used when you quickly do something to avoid embarrassment on the spot.
彼は冗談を言ってその場を繕った。
He saved face by making a joke.
Do not translate 'save face' literally as 顔を救う (かおをすくう). This is not a natural Japanese expression and will sound strange.
顔を立てる is used when you actively help someone else save face, while 面目を保つ is about preserving your own honor or reputation. Use 顔を立てる when the focus is on another person's dignity.
Literally 'to stand up someone's face', meaning to help someone save face or show respect to maintain their dignity. Often used when you do something to avoid embarrassing another person.
上司の顔を立てるために、会議では反対意見を言わなかった。
To save face for my boss, I didn't voice my objection at the meeting.
Similar to 面目を保つ but more about keeping up appearances or social standing. Slightly more formal.
彼は会社の体面を保つために辞任した。
He resigned to save face for the company.
Literally 'to avoid being shamed'. A more casual way to express the idea of saving face by not embarrassing oneself.
彼は恥をかかないように、事前にしっかり準備した。
He prepared thoroughly in advance to save face.
A loanword from Chinese '面子' (miànzi), meaning 'face' in the social sense. Used in casual or colloquial contexts, often among younger people.
メンツを保つために、彼は無理をした。
He pushed himself too hard to save face.
To cover up or gloss over a mistake to avoid losing face. Often implies a quick fix.
彼女は笑顔で失敗を取り繕った。
She saved face by smiling through her mistake.