appearances Definition
- 1the way that someone or something looks to other people
- 2an occasion when someone appears in public
Using appearances: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "appearances" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
She maintained appearances by wearing expensive clothes and driving a fancy car.
Example
The politician made an appearance at the rally to show his support for the cause.
Example
Despite his illness, he tried to keep up appearances and attend social events.
appearances Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for appearances
- impression
- image
- perception
- facade
- outward show
Phrases with appearances
keep up appearances
to maintain a good impression or outward show despite difficulties or problems
Example
Even though they were struggling financially, they tried to keep up appearances by hosting dinner parties and dressing well.
put in an appearance
to attend an event or gathering briefly or as a courtesy
Example
He put in an appearance at the party to say hello to the host, but didn't stay long.
to create the impression or perception of something, whether true or false
Example
The company gave the appearance of being environmentally friendly, but was later exposed for polluting the local river.
Origins of appearances
from Old French 'aparance', meaning 'semblance'
Summary: appearances in Brief
'Appearances' [əˈpɪrənsɪz] refer to the way someone or something looks to others. It can be used to describe an impression or image, as in 'Despite his illness, he tried to keep up appearances and attend social events.' Appearances can also refer to an occasion when someone appears in public, such as 'The politician made an appearance at the rally to show his support for the cause.' Phrases like 'keep up appearances' and 'give the appearance of' further illustrate the importance of outward show and perception.
