despite the semblance of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "despite the semblance of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something appears to be one way, but the reality is different, often highlighting a contrast between appearance and reality. Example: "Despite the semblance of harmony in the group, tensions were brewing beneath the surface."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

And the Tweed Run, despite the semblance of tradition, has only been going since 2009, when it began under the sponsorship of Brooks saddles.

The Guardian

And even these Kurdish fighters, despite the semblance of unified command by the autonomous Kurdistan Regional Government, are made up of two separate forces controlled by the rival parties that dominate different parts of Iraqi Kurdistan.Back in Libya, there is not one but two rival governments: one in the capital, Tripoli, and the other in the eastern city of Tobruk.

The Economist

Musicologist and author Ian MacDonald calls the album "erratic and often hollow", despite the "semblance of unity and coherence" offered by the medley.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Painting (citrābhāsa, literally "the semblance of sculpture") ranks third.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Verisimilitude, the semblance of reality in dramatic or nondramatic fiction.

Encyclopedia Britannica

By the mid-1970s, Maritime Command had reorganized into the semblance of a naval staff.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Absent even the semblance of a public transport system, the motorcycle-taxis were vital.

The Economist

This requires leaders representing differing philosophies to stand, so that we have the semblance of choice.

Independent

Indeed, Laos has not even the semblance of an opposition and certainly no free press.

The Economist

He also needs respectable politicians to give his new interim government the semblance of legitimacy.

The Economist

But the semblance of unity held, just about.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "despite the semblance of" when you want to emphasize a contrast between how something appears and its actual nature. This phrase is effective in highlighting underlying realities that contradict surface impressions.

Common error

Avoid using "despite the semblance of" in casual or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "even though it seemed like" or "although it appeared" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "despite the semblance of" functions as a prepositional phrase, introducing a contrasting element or concession. It sets up a situation where the outward appearance suggests one thing, but the underlying reality is different. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Science

17%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "despite the semblance of" is a grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to emphasize a contrast between appearance and reality. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While infrequent, it finds its place in formal writing, especially in news, encyclopedic, and scientific contexts. Alternatives such as "in spite of the appearance of" or "regardless of the illusion of" offer similar meanings. When employing this phrase, ensure it aligns with the overall tone, avoiding overuse in casual settings to maintain clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in spite of the appearance of

Emphasizes the contradiction between what is seen and the underlying reality.

regardless of the illusion of

Highlights the deceptive nature of the appearance.

notwithstanding the facade of

Uses a more formal term to describe the deceptive surface.

even with the pretense of

Focuses on the act of pretending or feigning.

despite the outward show of

Emphasizes that the appearance is merely a display.

in the face of the charade of

Highlights the deceptive and often elaborate nature of the appearance.

notwithstanding the veneer of

Indicates a thin, superficial layer that hides the true nature of something.

even given the guise of

Suggests a deceptive or misleading appearance.

irrespective of the impression of

Focuses on the lack of consideration given to the apparent impression.

without regard to the semblance of

Emphasizes the lack of attention paid to the apparent form or likeness.

FAQs

What does "despite the semblance of" mean?

It means 'even though there's an appearance or outward show of something', implying the reality is different. For example, "Despite the semblance of unity, the team was plagued by internal conflicts."

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

You can use it to introduce a situation that contradicts what it seems. For instance, "Despite the semblance of order, chaos reigned behind the scenes."

What are some alternatives to "despite the semblance of"?

Alternatives include "in spite of the appearance of", "regardless of the illusion of", or "notwithstanding the facade of", which offer similar meanings with slight variations in tone and formality.

Is it better to say "despite the semblance of" or "although it appears that"?

"Despite the semblance of" is more formal and emphasizes a contrast between appearance and reality. "Although it appears that" is more straightforward and suitable for less formal contexts. Choose based on your desired tone and audience.