cracks in the facade

USAGE SUMMARY

'cracks in the facade' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to problems or flaws in outward appearances or images that a person or organization may be trying to portray. For example: "The recent scandals exposed the cracks in the facade of the presidency".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Are there cracks in the facade?

The New Yorker

Plants are growing out of cracks in the facade.

The New York Times

But six games into an improbable winning streak, some cracks in the facade were on display.

The New York Times

There do not seem to be any cracks in the facade yet.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The longer they remain on display, the more you see the cracks in the facade.

The New York Times - Arts

Are the first sizable cracks in the facade of anti-immigrant "nativism" in America finally beginning to show?

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Despite such pressure, there is not a single crack in the facade.

The New York Times

The killing of Mr. Giovanditto was a crack in the facade of this community, a 10-minute drive from Disney World, that was just too hard to ignore -- especially with the standoff coming right on its heels.

The New York Times

A momentary crack in the facade came near the end of his speech, when Mr. Romney recited a verse from a Sam Walter Foss poem he often quotes, joking that even he could remember four lines.

The New York Times

The only perceptible crack in the facade is that they're struggling financially, a fissure suggested by Carolyn's quietly tense demeanor, Roger's knotted forehead and the house's smudged, unpainted walls.

The New York Times

Whether or not their policies work or achieve what they claim to be doing – those are the questions, not whether there's a crack in the facade of unanimity".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cracks in the facade" to describe situations where an initial positive impression is starting to show signs of underlying problems or weaknesses.

Common error

Avoid using "cracks in the facade" when referring to literal, physical cracks. The phrase is primarily metaphorical and should describe abstract weaknesses or flaws, not structural damage to a building.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cracks in the facade" functions as a noun phrase that acts as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes a situation or entity, highlighting underlying weaknesses becoming apparent. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cracks in the facade" is a common and effective way to describe the emergence of underlying problems or weaknesses in something that initially appears strong or perfect. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Its primary function is to critically observe and reveal the deceptive nature of outward appearances, with frequent usage in neutral contexts like news and media. Alternative phrases such as "flaws in the image" and "problems beneath the surface" offer similar meanings, while it's important to avoid its literal use when describing physical cracks. By understanding its metaphorical nature and appropriate contexts, writers can effectively use "cracks in the facade" to add depth and insight to their analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chinks in the armor

This idiom refers to vulnerabilities or weaknesses that are starting to show.

problems beneath the surface

Highlights issues that are not immediately visible, suggesting a deeper level of concern.

unraveling of the pretense

Suggests a deliberate deception is being exposed.

flaws in the image

Focuses on imperfections in the presented image, rather than a structural weakness.

underlying vulnerabilities

Focuses on the existence of weaknesses that are not always obvious.

erosion of the illusion

Implies a gradual wearing away of a false or misleading image.

shortcomings becoming evident

Highlights the emergence and visibility of deficiencies.

fault lines appearing

Suggests a division or instability that is becoming noticeable.

weaknesses in the appearance

Emphasizes deficiencies in how something appears, highlighting a superficial level.

glitches in the system

Points to malfunctions or errors within a larger framework.

FAQs

How can I use "cracks in the facade" in a sentence?

You can use "cracks in the facade" to describe a situation where something that appears strong or perfect on the surface is actually starting to show signs of weakness or problems. For example: "The recent scandal revealed the "cracks in the facade" of the company's ethical image".

What's a good alternative to "cracks in the facade"?

Alternatives to "cracks in the facade" include phrases like "flaws in the image", "weaknesses in the appearance", or "problems beneath the surface". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "cracks in the facade" in formal writing?

Yes, "cracks in the facade" can be used in formal writing, particularly in analytical or critical contexts. It is commonly found in news articles and opinion pieces.

What does it mean when someone says there are "cracks in the facade"?

When someone says there are "cracks in the facade", it means that something or someone that appeared to be strong, successful, or perfect is starting to show signs of weakness, failure, or problems. It suggests that the outward appearance is deceptive.