save face

phrase

: to avoid having other people lose respect for oneself

He tried to save face by working overtime.

Examples of save face in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Whether the Force is strong with proponents or opponents of a settlement, one idea certainly being considered for everyone to save face is as a hold-separate arrangement. — Dominic Patten, Deadline, 20 Sep. 2026

The two publicly fake a relationship to save face — and test differing theories on love. — Jack Smart, PEOPLE, 19 Sep. 2026

This information was not made public, likely to save face and for operational security. — Andrea N. Goldstein, The Atlantic, 28 Aug. 2026

Ellison wants the attorneys general to agree to hash out a settlement that would presumably let both sides save face — and close the deal before the case goes to trial in March 2027. — Todd Spangler, Variety, 18 Aug. 2026

Rhymes for save face

• aerospace
• anatase
• anyplace
• commonplace
• cyberspace
• database
• diabase
• diastase
• dnase
• elastase
• fireplace
• hyperspace