面子

miàn zi

face; reputation

HSK Level 5

Example Sentences

我很在乎面子。

wǒ hěn zài hū miàn zi.

I care a lot about face.

他为了面子,什么都做得出来。

tā wèi le miàn zi, shén me dōu zuò de chū lái.

He would do anything to save face.

面子比什么都重要。

miàn zi bǐ shén me dōu zhòng yào.

Face is more important than anything else.

Synonyms

Antonyms

里子 (lǐzi)

substance

里外 (lǐwài)

inside and outside

Etymology & Components

The Chinese word 面子 (miànzi) is a combination of two characters: 面 (miàn), meaning "face", and 子 (zi), a suffix that can indicate "small" or "young". Together, they literally mean "small face" or "young face". However, the meaning of 面子 goes beyond its literal translation. It refers to one's social standing, reputation, or prestige, particularly in the context of saving face or losing face.In Chinese culture,面子 is highly valued and plays a significant role in social interactions. It is often associated with concepts such as honor, dignity, and self-respect. Maintaining面子 is considered important for both individuals and groups, as it reflects on their social status and credibility.The concept of面子 is deeply rooted in Confucianism, which emphasizes the importance of social harmony and respect for social norms. It is believed that preserving one's面子 and showing respect for others'面子 are essential for maintaining smooth relationships and social order.In everyday usage,面子 can be used in various contexts. For example, someone might say "我丢了面子" (wǒ diū le miànzi), meaning "I lost face", to express embarrassment or humiliation. Conversely, "给他面子" (gěi tā miànzi), meaning "give him face", indicates showing respect or deference to someone.Understanding the concept of面子 is crucial for comprehending Chinese culture and social dynamics. It provides insights into the importance of social harmony, reputation, and the intricate web of social interactions in Chinese society.

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