a semblance of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a semblance of" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It means a faint or vague resemblance or appearance of something. Example sentence: She tried to maintain a semblance of normalcy, but her heart was breaking inside.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Over time, a semblance of normalcy returned.

The New Yorker

A semblance of normal life has returned.

The Economist

A semblance of political comedy.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I want a semblance of the truth.

The New York Times

Slowly, the war's end brought a semblance of peace.

The New York Times

But a semblance of calm has returned, he added.

The New York Times

"There is a semblance of normality in Freetown.

The Guardian

All those excuses have a semblance of truth.

The New York Times - Sports

J.T. maintained a semblance of order, however warped.

The Economist

A semblance of democracy was restored to Myanmar in 2011.

The New York Times

Life is slowly returning to a semblance of normalcy.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a semblance of" to indicate a superficial or incomplete resemblance, particularly when the reality is different or diminished. For example, "After the storm, the city returned to a semblance of normalcy".

Common error

Avoid using "a semblance of" when you mean a genuine similarity. "Semblance" implies an outward appearance that may not reflect the true nature of things. Use "similarity" when there's an actual likeness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a semblance of" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that something has an outward appearance or a faint trace of a particular quality. This is supported by Ludwig AI's analysis and the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a semblance of" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that signifies a superficial or incomplete resemblance. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage. It's most commonly found in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific sources. When using this phrase, ensure you're accurately conveying the idea of an outward appearance that may not reflect the true nature of things. Be mindful not to confuse it with words like "similarity", which imply a genuine likeness. Mastering the nuances of "a semblance of" will enhance the precision and clarity of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an appearance of

Focuses on the outward impression, suggesting that the reality may be different.

a hint of

Suggests a subtle or indirect indication, emphasizing the slightness of the resemblance.

a suggestion of

Indicates a slight or indirect indication, similar to "a hint of".

a shadow of

Emphasizes the diminished or weakened state compared to the original.

a trace of

Indicates a very small amount or sign, emphasizing the faintness of the resemblance.

a touch of

Implies a slight amount or degree, highlighting the minimal presence of the quality.

a degree of

Focuses on the extent to which something exists, emphasizing a limited quantity.

a veneer of

Similar to "facade", but suggesting a thinner, more superficial layer.

a pretense of

Highlights the insincerity or artificiality of the outward show.

a facade of

Implies a deceptive outward show, suggesting an intention to mislead.

FAQs

How can I use "a semblance of" in a sentence?

Use "a semblance of" to indicate that something has an outward appearance or a faint trace of a particular quality. For instance, "The negotiations achieved "a semblance of peace", but underlying tensions remained".

What are some alternatives to "a semblance of"?

You can use alternatives like "a hint of", "an appearance of", or "a trace of" depending on the context and the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a semblance for" instead of "a semblance of"?

No, the correct preposition to use with "a semblance" is "of". "A semblance for" is grammatically incorrect. Always use "a semblance of" followed by the quality or state being resembled.

What's the difference between "a semblance of" and "a degree of"?

"A semblance of" suggests an outward appearance or a faint trace, while "a degree of" indicates a certain quantity or level. "A semblance of order" implies that the order is superficial, while "a degree of order" suggests that there is some level of actual order.