semblance

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "semblance" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate a vague or slight similarity or resemblance between two or more things. For example: "I could barely find any semblance between my old life and the one I have now."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But the chemistry between Abdul and Cowell was what made those early seasons so amusing, Simon trying manfully to try and keep the show's semblance of seriousness going while, for example, Abdul growled at him or stepping in before Abdul makes things a little too X-rated for a family show.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Well, first, any semblance of a strong local economy must be killed.

The Guardian

Houses made of wood and bamboo provide some semblance of normality.

The Guardian

Local authorities have expressed strong doubts about the safety of the march, even though the Pakistani military has long claimed its operations in the area have brought a semblance of security.

The Guardian

If a semblance of creative independence cannot be maintained in an artistic enterprise, then it is unlikely to survive the criticism that will be heaped on it, particularly if it has been funded by a company that, like Wonga, is in the crosshairs of public and political opinion.

The Guardian

To his many critics in Budapest, this means hollowing out democracy, retaining a semblance of pluralism while controlling all the key levers.

The Guardian

For Labour ever to stage any semblance of a recovery in Scotland, the following need to happen: ■ Don't forsake the trade unions; work with them.

The Guardian - Opinion

But supporters are entitled to expect a semblance of resistance, some show of fight, of invention or willingness to engage the opposition.

The Guardian - Sport

"There is a semblance of normality in Freetown.

The Guardian

Today's AI produces the semblance of intelligence through brute number-crunching force, without any great interest in approximating how minds equip humans with autonomy, interests and desires.

The Economist

Having marshalled much of the electorate, bought off most of the legal opposition leaders with plum appointments and restored a semblance of stability, his next task is to jump-start the economy with the help of foreign investment.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "semblance" to indicate a superficial or misleading appearance when a stronger term like "reality" or "truth" would be inaccurate.

Common error

Avoid using "semblance" when there is a strong or obvious similarity. Use it to denote a faint or superficial resemblance, not a clear and substantial one.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "semblance" is as a noun, often used to describe a superficial or faint appearance of something. Ludwig AI indicates that "semblance" is used to convey that something only appears to be a certain way, without necessarily being genuine. For example, "a semblance of normality."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "semblance" is a noun that denotes a superficial or faint appearance of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English to suggest a partial or incomplete resemblance. It is commonly found in "News & Media" and "Formal & Business" contexts. When using "semblance", ensure it reflects a faint or superficial similarity, not a substantial one. Alternatives include "appearance", "pretense", and "likeness", depending on the specific context and nuance you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resemblance

A broader synonym indicating a degree of similarity or correspondence.

likeness

Stresses the similarity or correspondence between two things.

appearance

Focuses more on the outward presentation rather than an actual similarity.

pretense

Highlights the artificial or deceptive nature of the outward show.

veneer

Emphasizes a superficial or deceptive outer layer.

guise

Refers to an external form or manner of presentation, often concealing the true nature.

facade

Implies a deceptive outward appearance designed to conceal something unpleasant or discreditable.

show

Indicates an outward display, which may or may not be genuine.

form

Refers to the external shape or configuration of something.

approximation

Suggests a close but not exact representation.

FAQs

How can I use "semblance" in a sentence?

You can use "semblance" to indicate a superficial or faint resemblance. For instance, "The military claimed to have restored a "semblance of security" to the region."

What can I say instead of "semblance"?

You can use alternatives like "appearance", "pretense", or "likeness" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a semblance of normality"?

Yes, "a "semblance of normality"" is a common and correct usage of the term, suggesting a superficial or incomplete return to normal conditions.

What is the difference between "semblance" and "resemblance"?

"Semblance" often implies a superficial or misleading appearance, whereas "resemblance" simply indicates a similarity or correspondence.