「面子(メンツ)」を理解することは、中国の人間関係を理解する鍵です。公の場で批判しない、直接断らない、常に逃げ道を与える。相手の面子を守ることは、自分が正しいと証明することより重要です。
Face (mianzi, 面子) is arguably the single most important concept for understanding Chinese social behavior. It's a complex mix of dignity, reputation, and social standing. Giving face means showing respect publicly; losing face means being humiliated in front of others; saving face means preserving someone's dignity in a difficult situation. Once you understand face, a lot of Chinese behavior that seemed puzzling suddenly makes sense.
Face dynamics are most important: when giving feedback at work, negotiating business deals, resolving conflicts, interacting with senior people, and any public setting where someone's reputation is at stake. In private, one-on-one conversations with trusted people, direct communication is more acceptable.
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