1.
honor; dignity; prestige; reputation
One's social standing, outward dignity, or reputation in the eyes of others. Similar to 'face' in the social sense.
体面を保つ。
To maintain one's dignity.
体面を傷つけるようなことはしたくない。
I don't want to do anything that would damage my reputation.
会社の体面を気にして本当のことを言えなかった。
I couldn't tell the truth because I was worried about the company's reputation.
体面 refers to one's outward dignity or social reputation — similar to the concept of 'face' in social contexts. Somewhat literary and formal.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 体面を保つ: to maintain one's dignity
- 体面を傷つける: to damage one's reputation
- 体面を繕う: to keep up appearances
- 体面を気にする: to worry about appearances
HOMOPHONE WARNING:
Do not confuse with 対面 (meeting face to face), which has the same reading but different kanji and meaning.
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 面子: face, pride (more colloquial)
- 体裁: outward appearances (more everyday)
- 名誉: honor, reputation (broader scope)