save face

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"Both sides need to be able to claim victory and save face, whatever deal they agree on," a diplomat based in the Middle East told AFP on condition of anonymity.

From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026

To save face with her fellow pensioners, Mrs. Palfrey passes off a struggling writer she meets on the street as her grandson, only to draw confusingly close to him.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 19, 2025

Enough canceled flights could annoy members of Congress so much, on a personal level, that they get into a bipartisan dealmaking spirit that allows everyone to save face.

From Slate • Nov. 7, 2025

The details were a little complicated, perhaps by design to enable both sides to save face.

From BBC • May 12, 2025

“Folklore’s a piece of it,” I hedged quickly, eager to save face.

From "The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss