Semblance: meaning, definitions and examples

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semblance

[ˈsɛmbləns ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in appearance

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

Synonyms

appearance, resemblance, semblant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
semblance	Similar to 'semblance', it is used to describe an outward appearance that may not reflect the reality. It’s a less common alternative and often used in literary contexts. The semblance of normalcy was kept despite the underlying tension His friendly demeanor was just a semblance, as he had his own plans
appearance	Refers to the way someone or something looks externally. Can be used in a neutral or positive sense. Her appearance at the event was a surprise to everyone The appearance of the building was quite modern
resemblance	Used to indicate similarity or likeness between two or more things, often implying a genetic or characteristic similarity. There is a strong resemblance between the two siblings The painting bears a resemblance to the original
semblant	An archaic or very rare term; used historically in similar contexts as 'semblance'. Usually found in older literature or poetic works. With smiling semblant they lead him forth, and make him great cheer The knight had a semblant of valor, hiding his true fear

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 | Noun}

resemblance

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

Synonyms

likeness, resemblance, similarity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
semblance	Used when referring to an outward appearance, often one that is deceptive or misleading. She tried to maintain a semblance of calm despite the chaos around her There was a semblance of truth in his story, but many details were clearly fabricated
resemblance	Indicates that two things have traits in common, often used for physical appearance but can also refer to abstract qualities. The resemblance between the mother and daughter is striking There's a slight resemblance between the two concepts
similarity	Used to indicate that two or more things share characteristics or qualities, often used in broader and more abstract contexts. Despite their different upbringings, there are many similarities between their life stories The similarity in their interests brought them closer
likeness	Refers to a close similarity or exact match, commonly used in the context of physical appearance or depiction. The statue bore a remarkable likeness to the deceased king There's a clear likeness between the two siblings

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 | Noun}

show

A mere show or pretense of something without the reality.

Synonyms

facade, pretend, pretense.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
semblance	Similar to the first entry 'semblance', but with a slight emphasis on the illusion of reality under adverse conditions. Usage overlaps with the previous definition. The semblance of normalcy returned to the town after the storm.
pretense	Refers to an attempt to make something that is not the case appear true. It is generally used when someone is trying to deceive others deliberately. He dropped the pretense of being interested in the job. They left the party early under the pretense of a headache.
facade	Specifically refers to the front of a building but metaphorically used to describe a deceptive outward appearance. Often implies intentionality in creating a false front. The building had an elegant facade that hid its dilapidated interior. Her cheerful smile was just a facade to hide her sadness.
pretend	Describes the act of acting as if something is true when it is not. Usually used in everyday conversation and often has a playful or deceitful connotation. Children often pretend to be superheroes. He pretended to be interested in the conversation.

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'similare', meaning 'to make similar', which is also the root for words like 'similar'.
It was first used in the English language around the 14th century, mainly to express outward form or appearance.
Over time, it became associated with false appearances or 'pretenses', showing a shift in usage.

Literature

In Shakespeare's plays, characters often hide their true intentions behind a façade, illustrating the concept of semblance.
The exploration of semblance versus reality is a central theme in many classic novels, revealing deeper truths about characters.
This word is frequently used in poetry to convey themes of illusion and deceptive appearances.

Psychology

People often create a semblance of confidence in social situations, even if they feel anxious inside.
The term relates to the psychological concept of cognitive dissonance, where people present an image that may not match their true feelings.
Understanding the distinction between semblance and reality can help in therapy by addressing self-perception issues.

Cultural References

In many cultures, people create a semblance of happiness on social gatherings, though they might be hiding their true emotions.
Films often depict characters living in a semblance of normality while experiencing turmoil beneath the surface.
Cultural practices around festivals often create a semblance of joy and celebration that might not reflect real-life hardships.

Art

In visual arts, semblances are often created through techniques like illusion to challenge viewers’ perceptions of reality.
Cubism in art presents a semblance of multiple perspectives within a single image, inviting the viewer to question what they perceive.
Artists like Salvador Dalí play with semblances by blurring reality and illusion to create thought-provoking works.

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 Frequency Rank

At position #13,276, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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13273 attire
13274 inelastic
13275 addicted
13276 semblance
13277 loosened
13278 executions
13279 glandular
...