面めん子つが立たつ

expression, godan verb (-tsu)

keep face; save face; not lose face

Used when someone's honor, reputation, or social standing is preserved in a situation. Often in the negative form 面子が立たない (to lose face).

• 彼かれは謝しゃ罪ざいすることで面めん子つが立たった。

  He saved face by apologizing.

• あんなに怒おこられては面めん子つが立たたない。

  Being scolded like that, he can't keep face.