Asked in: SSC Steno 2026 T-1
face-saving in SSC previous-year questions
- SSC Steno 2026 T-1 Idioms & Phrases
In the following question, four alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase underlined in the sentence. Choose the option that best expresses its meaning.
The politician’s sudden apology was clearly a face-saving measure.Answer & explanation
Answer: B) An attempt to avoid embarrassment
Meaning: a face-saving measure = a step taken to protect one's reputation and escape open humiliation *(इज़्ज़त बचाने का उपाय, लाज रखने की तरकीब)*.
An attempt to avoid embarrassment *(शर्मिंदगी से बचने का प्रयास)* says exactly that.
The word *clearly* tells us the apology was calculated: the politician spoke to protect his standing, not because he felt sorry.
Why the others are wrong.
• a sincere request *(निष्कपट निवेदन)* — sincerity is the one thing a face-saving move lacks, and an apology is not a request.
• a public statement *(सार्वजनिक वक्तव्य)* — it may well be made in public, but the idiom names the motive, not the setting.
• a sign of guilt *(अपराध-बोध का संकेत)* — the whole point o
face-saving – questions
Has face-saving been asked in SSC exams?
Yes – face-saving has been asked in SSC exams: SSC Steno 2026 T-1.