Semblance: meaning, definitions and examples

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semblance

[ ˈsɛmbləns ]

^{Context #1}

in appearance

The outward appearance or apparent form of something, especially when the reality is different.

Synonyms

appearance, resemblance, semblant

Examples of usage

The house has the semblance of a traditional cottage but is actually a modern design.
Her smile was only a semblance of happiness, hiding the pain she felt inside.

^{Context #2}

resemblance

A resemblance or similarity to something, especially when not identical.

Synonyms

likeness, resemblance, similarity

Examples of usage

There was a semblance of truth in his story, but it was mostly fiction.
The new painting bore a semblance to the artist's earlier works.

^{Context #3}

show

A mere show or pretense of something without the reality.

Synonyms

facade, pretend, pretense

Examples of usage

The meeting had the semblance of progress, but nothing was actually accomplished.
His apology was just a semblance of remorse, as he continued to repeat the same behavior.

Translations

Translations of the word "semblance" in other languages:

🇵🇹 semelhança

🇮🇳 समानता

🇩🇪 Ähnlichkeit

🇮🇩 kemiripan

🇺🇦 схожість

🇵🇱 podobieństwo

🇯🇵 類似

🇫🇷 ressemblance

🇪🇸 semejanza

🇹🇷 benzerlik

🇰🇷 유사성

🇸🇦 تشابه

🇨🇿 podobnost

🇸🇰 podobnosť

🇨🇳 相似

🇸🇮 similarnost

🇮🇸 líking

🇰🇿 ұқсастық

🇬🇪 მსგავსება

🇦🇿 oxşarlıq

🇲🇽 semejanza

Word origin

The word 'semblance' originated from the Old French term 'semblance', which means 'semblance, appearance, image'. It entered the English language in the late 13th century. Over the centuries, 'semblance' has been used to describe the outward appearance or form of something, often in contrast to the reality beneath the surface. The word has evolved to encompass the concept of similarity or resemblance without being identical. Today, 'semblance' is commonly used to convey the idea of a superficial show or pretense.