Semblance Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ญ
semblance
[หsษmblษns ]
Definitions
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. Itโs a less common alternative and often used in literary contexts.
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| appearance |
Refers to the way someone or something looks externally. Can be used in a neutral or positive sense.
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| resemblance |
Used to indicate similarity or likeness between two or more things, often implying a genetic or characteristic similarity.
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| semblant |
An archaic or very rare term; used historically in similar contexts as 'semblance'. Usually found in older literature or poetic works.
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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.
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.
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| resemblance |
Indicates that two things have traits in common, often used for physical appearance but can also refer to abstract qualities.
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| similarity |
Used to indicate that two or more things share characteristics or qualities, often used in broader and more abstract contexts.
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| likeness |
Refers to a close similarity or exact match, commonly used in the context of physical appearance or depiction.
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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.
show
A mere show or pretense of something without the reality.
Synonyms
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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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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
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In Shakespeare's plays, characters often hide their true intentions behind a faรงade, 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 viewersโ 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 Dalรญ play with semblances by blurring reality and illusion to create thought-provoking works.
Origin of 'semblance'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
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.