The theory we attempt to 'save face' in discourse to keep status or achieve respect is called?

• A. Face Theory
• B. Idiom
• C. Chaining
• D. Taboo Language

Answer: (A)

Saving face in discourse is about managing your social image and the respect you receive through language. This is captured by Face Theory, which treats “face” as the public self-image we want to uphold. People use politeness strategies—like softening requests, offering apologies, or speaking indirectly—to protect both positive face (being liked) and negative face (not being imposed on). So this concept specifically names the idea of preserving status and respect in interaction. The other terms refer to different ideas: idiom is fixed figurative language, chaining is a different linguistic process, and taboo language concerns restricted words rather than how we maintain face.