Definition
给面子 is a culturally loaded verb phrase rooted in the concept of 'face' (面子). It means to show someone respect or deference, especially by praising them publicly, avoiding embarrassment, or honoring their social standing. It is a separable verb (离合词): you can insert measure words, objects, or degree words between 给 and 面子, e.g. 给我点面子 ('give me a little face'). The bare gloss 'show deference or praise' undersells its everyday social grip — in Chinese culture, giving face smooths relationships.
v
to give faceto show respect or deference to someone (often by praising them or avoiding public embarrassment)
Examples
- ，给面子。Tā dāngzhòng biǎoyáng wǒ, zhēn gěi.He praised me in public — that really gave me face.
- ，。Nǐ gěi tā diǎn miànzi, bié dāngzhòng pīpíng tā.Give him a little face — don't criticize him in public.
- ，。Dàjiā gěi le tā yí cì miànzi, ràng tā xiān fāyán.Everyone gave him face once by letting him speak first.
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