In Chinese culture, maintaining a good public image is paramount. While many learners are familiar with 面子 (miànzi), or “face,” `名誉 (míngyù)` operates on a different, more formal level. The most crucial distinction to understand is:
For example, if a boss publicly scolds an employee for a minor mistake, the employee loses `面子`. However, if the boss falsely accuses that employee of stealing, the boss is damaging the employee's `名誉`. The first is a social faux pas; the second is a serious attack on character that could warrant legal action (infringing on their `名誉权 - míngyùquán`, or “right to reputation”). This concept highlights the societal value placed on one's public standing and the collective's judgment of an individual's or group's integrity.
`名誉` is a formal word. You won't hear it used in casual, everyday conversations among friends. Its usage is primarily reserved for more serious or official situations.
This is the most common context for `名誉`. It is the specific legal term for reputation in cases of defamation.
Companies and institutions have a `名誉` that they must protect.
While less common, an individual might speak of their `名誉` when their fundamental character or family's good name is at stake. It implies a level of seriousness far beyond just being embarrassed.