面子

• 拼音: miàn zi
• 汉字拆解: 面 = pictograph of a face; 子 = noun suffix

含义

Face; dignity; reputation. Social prestige and the desire to maintain respect.

A crucial concept in Chinese culture representing social standing, reputation, and dignity. Losing face causes embarrassment and shame; giving face shows respect. Influences many social interactions and decisions.

例句

1. 他碍于面子，不好意思直接拒绝。
2. 当着那么多人批评他，太不给面子了。
3. 别太在乎面子，该道歉就道歉。

用法指南

语境: social, cultural, relationships

语气: culturally significant

正确说法

• 给别人面子很重要。(It's important to give others face.)
• 他丢了面子，心里很不是滋味。(He lost face and felt very uncomfortable.)

错误说法

• 你的面子很漂亮。(面子 refers to social face/dignity, not physical appearance — use 脸 for the physical face)

起源与历史

面 (miàn, face) + 子 (zi, noun suffix). One's face or social standing.

文化背景

世代: All ages

社会背景: Universal