min6 zi2面子
Jyutpingmin6 zi2
Yalemihn jí
Definition
Face, reputation, prestige, or dignity; one's value in the eyes of others.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
Maintaining face is a central pillar of social interaction, often dictating how people handle conflict or public disagreement. It is frequently used in the context of giving someone a way out of an awkward situation to preserve their social standing. The concept is deeply tied to the idea of public image rather than internal self-worth.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
He really lost a lot of face by doing that.
Related words
Common phrases
a matter of dignity
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the physical face, which is referred to as 面 or 面口. Using 面子 to describe a physical facial feature will sound completely unnatural to native speakers.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
