Criticizing or scolding someone in front of others causes them to lose face and damages the relationship. It is better to give feedback privately.
This is a core rule of Chinese 'face' culture. Public humiliation is considered a severe social offense, even if the criticism is justified.
Chinese culture places immense value on preserving 'face' (mianzi). This saying is a social guideline to maintain harmony and respect, ensuring that correction does not lead to resentment or conflict.
Draw random cards from hundreds of real Chinese folk sayings and proverbs. Each flip reveals what Chinese people actually mean.
🎴 Play Chinese Wisdom Cards