体たい面めん

noun

honor; dignity; face; appearances

Refers to one's public reputation, social standing, or outward dignity. Often used in phrases like 体面を保つ (keep up appearances) or 体面を汚す (lose face).

• 彼かれは家か族ぞくの体たい面めんを守まもるために懸けん命めいに働はたらいた。

  He worked hard to protect his family's honor.

• 会かい社しゃの体たい面めんを保たもつために、問もん題だいは公おおやけにされなかった。

  To maintain the company's reputation, the issue was not made public.