Likeness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฏ
likeness
[หlaษชknษs ]
Definitions
in art
The quality or state of being alike in some way; resemblance.
Synonyms
alikeness, resemblance, similarity.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| likeness |
Used to refer to an accurate representation, particularly in art or photography. It often implies a faithful or precise replication.
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| resemblance |
Typically used to indicate a visual or physical likeness, but can also be used more broadly. It often implies a degree of similarity but not necessarily exactness.
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| similarity |
Often used in general discussions to point out that two or more things share characteristics. It is the most versatile and commonly used word among the group.
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| alikeness |
This word is less common and typically used in more formal or academic contexts to discuss the similarity between entities. It may sound awkward in casual conversation.
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Examples of usage
- Her painting bore a striking likeness to the original photograph.
- The sculpture captured the likeness of the famous actor perfectly.
in person
The quality or fact of being like; similarity.
Synonyms
affinity, resemblance, similarity.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| likeness |
Used when referring to a visual or physical similarity between two things or people.
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| similarity |
Appropriate when referring to the state of being alike or having common features, especially in abstract or conceptual contexts.
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| resemblance |
Used to highlight the degree to which someone or something looks like someone or something else.
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| affinity |
Best when describing a natural attraction or feeling of kinship toward someone or something.
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Examples of usage
- There was a strong family likeness between the two siblings.
- The child's likeness to his father was uncanny.
in character
Similarity in character or behavior.
Synonyms
affinity, resemblance, similarity.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| likeness |
Used when referring to a physical or visual similarity between two people or objects.
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| similarity |
Generally used to discuss how two or more things share characteristics. It's a neutral term applicable in various contexts.
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| resemblance |
Refers more broadly to any form of similarity, especially used when comparing people or things. Can be used positively or negatively.
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| affinity |
Often used to describe a natural liking or attraction to something or someone, not necessarily based on visual similarity.
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Examples of usage
- Their kindness and generosity showed a strong likeness.
- Their shared values created a sense of likeness among the group.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Art
- Artists often use 'likeness' to create portraits that capture not just a personโs appearance, but also their essence.
- Sculptors aim to achieve likeness through the details of their work, bringing figures to life by highlighting similarities.
- Caricatures exaggerate likeness, portraying people in recognizable yet humorous ways.
Psychology
- Humans have a tendency to recognize and favor familiar faces, which enhances emotional connections through likeness.
- Research shows that people are more likely to trust individuals who resemble themselves, a phenomenon known as 'similarity attraction'.
- Likeness is central to 'social identity theory', which suggests we define ourselves based on the groups we feel similar to, influencing our behaviors.
Literature
- In storytelling, likeness often plays a role in character development, highlighting connections between protagonists.
- Literature explores themes of similarity, such as doppelgรคngers or similar life choices leading characters down parallel paths.
- Fables often rely on the likeness between characters to deliver moral lessons about identity and change.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, the likeness of deities plays a key role in religious practices, allowing worshippers to relate to the divine.
- Expressions like 'likeness of mind' emphasize cultural similarities that create bonds between communities.
- Cultural products, like memes, rely on shared likenesses to create a sense of unity and collective humor.
Origin of 'likeness'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old English 'licenesse', which means 'similarity' or 'resemblance'.
- Related terms include 'like' and 'alike', both of which express similarity.
- In Middle English, the term evolved to describe not just physical similarity but also likeness in character.
The word 'likeness' originated from the Middle English term 'liknesse', which comes from the Old English word 'licnes'. It has been used since the 14th century to describe the quality or state of being alike or similar in various contexts.
See also: alike, alikeness, dislike, disliked, likable, like, likelihood, likely, liken, likewise, liking, unlike, unlikeliness.