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

But my mom wasn’t trying to save face in front of the nurses; she lied for their benefit.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 30, 2026

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

Years later she would admit she was trying to save face, telling Australian media she was actually dropped from the team.

From BBC • Jul. 23, 2024

Carla shook her head, and her mother explained to the officer, helping her save face, "She doesn't remember."

From "How the García Girls Lost Their Accents" by Julia Alvarez