jiu3 min6要面
Jyutpingjiu3 min6
Yaleyiu mihn
Definition
To be concerned about keeping face, maintaining one's reputation, or preserving one's dignity.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
Focuses on the psychological need to maintain dignity or social standing, often implying that someone is overly concerned with how others perceive them. It is frequently used to describe someone who refuses to admit mistakes or accept help because they fear appearing weak or incompetent. Unlike the more formal concept of face, this is a direct critique of a person's character or behavior.
Examples
He is a person who cares a lot about his reputation and dislikes being criticized.
Why do you care so much about saving face? Just admit you were wrong.
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the noun 面子, which is the concept of face itself. 要面 is a verb phrase describing the action or state of being concerned with that face, so it cannot be used as a noun to mean 'reputation'.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
