expression, ichidan verb
save face; preserve someone's honor
Used when someone acts to protect another person's dignity or reputation, often in social situations. The expression implies a deliberate effort to avoid embarrassment.
See also: 立てる (たてる)
彼は上司の面子を立てるために、会議で自分の意見を引っ込めた。
He withdrew his own opinion at the meeting to save his boss's face.
友達の面子を立てて、彼の提案に賛成した。
I agreed with my friend's proposal to help him save face.