Definition:
Losing face: To suffer embarrassment or be publicly humiliated. The phrase is translated from the Chinese tiu lien and has been used in English since the late 19th century.
Synonyms:
- Humiliation: The act of making someone feel ashamed or stupid.
- Embarrassment: A feeling of self-consciousness, shame, or awkwardness.
- Discomfiture: A state of unease or embarrassment.
Antonyms:
- Saving face: Protecting one’s dignity or avoiding disgrace.
- Honor: High respect or esteem for oneself.
Similar Common Expressions:
- Egg on one’s face: To appear foolish or embarrassed.
- Bite the dust: To suffer a defeat or failure.
- Eat one’s words: To have to take back something you said because you are proven wrong.
Related Proverbs:
- “Pride goes before a fall.” – Warning against letting pride lead to one’s downfall.
- “He that laughs last, laughs longest.” – The final winner will have the ultimate satisfaction.
Humorous Quote:
“I’m not clumsy; the floor just hates me, and the tables and chairs are bullies.” – Unknown
Literature and Media:
- Books: “The Scarlet Letter” by Nathaniel Hawthorne – Explores themes of humiliation and public shaming.
- Movies: “Bridget Jones’s Diary” – Focuses on the comic aspects of personal embarrassment.
- Songs: “Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word” by Elton John – Touches on regret and humility.
- Poetry: “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost – Reflects on choices and consequences.
### Which expression means to be publicly humiliated?
- [x] Losing face
- [ ] Catching fire
- [ ] Pushing daisies
- [ ] Climbing the walls
> **Explanation:** "Losing face" translates a Chinese term for public embarrassment or humiliation, used in English since the late 19th century.
### Which one is a synonym for 'losing face'?
- [ ] Cloud nine
- [ ] Apple of my eye
- [x] Humiliation
- [ ] Cat nap
> **Explanation:** Humiliation refers to an experience that causes a loss of respect, similarly to losing face.
### True or False: 'Egg on one's face' means to experience awkward success.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** "Egg on one's face" means to look foolish or embarrassed, not successful.
### Choose the phrase that is an antonym of 'losing face':
- [ ] Bite the dust
- [x] Saving face
- [ ] In hot water
- [ ] Losing ground
> **Explanation:** Saving face refers to preserving one's dignity, the direct opposite of losing face.
Farewell thought: Remember, life’s mishaps and humiliations are merely missteps on the path to your most authentic self. Keep walking and laughing!
