thin veneer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "thin veneer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a superficial or deceptive appearance that covers something more substantial or complex underneath. Example: "The company's commitment to sustainability was merely a thin veneer, hiding their actual practices that were harmful to the environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's mostly thin veneer.

The New York Times

Was civilisation just a very thin veneer?

The Guardian - Books

The thin veneer of apparent normality is cracking up.

The Economist

This amnesia is enabled by a thin veneer of multiculturalism.

The Guardian - Opinion

We have adopted only a thin veneer of modernity.

The Guardian - Opinion

Below that thin veneer the water was still filthy, still dangerous and cold.

The New York Times

Worth tuning if only to see if our thin veneer of professionalism survives intact.

The Guardian - Sport

Aside from a thin veneer of slightly unconvincing psychological grounding to validate the nudity, that's it.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But the result is not just biography with a thin veneer of embellishment.

The New York Times - Books

The bedrock is crumpled into great waves underneath its thin veneer of soil.

The New York Times

Further, holes can exist undetected at the surface, covered by a thin veneer of sand.

Aeolian Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "thin veneer" to critically describe situations where an apparent positive quality or action is only a superficial cover for something less desirable. For example, a company's advertised environmental efforts might be a "thin veneer" concealing harmful practices.

Common error

Avoid using "thin veneer" in contexts that call for a literal description of a thin layer of material. The phrase is predominantly figurative, used to describe abstract qualities or appearances.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "thin veneer" functions as a noun phrase, where "thin" modifies the noun "veneer". It describes something that is superficially present but conceals a different reality underneath. Ludwig examples show its use in contexts ranging from political promises to personal charm.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Encyclopedias

22%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "thin veneer" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a superficial or deceptive appearance. Ludwig AI confirms this, and the examples demonstrate its prevalence across diverse contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. While suitable for both formal and informal settings, the phrase serves a critical purpose, often exposing underlying deception. Understanding the nuanced application of "thin veneer" enables more precise and impactful communication, making it a valuable tool in any writer's arsenal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

superficial layer

Focuses on the layered aspect of being "thin" and "superficial".

shallow facade

Emphasizes the deceptive and insincere nature of the "veneer".

fragile disguise

Highlights the easily breakable and concealing nature of the "veneer".

mere pretense

Reduces the veneer to a simple act of feigning or pretending.

delicate cover

Stresses the frailty and protective function of the superficial layer.

slight masking

Focuses on the act of concealing something with minimal effort.

tenuous semblance

Highlights the weak and uncertain nature of the apparent quality.

cosmetic coating

Implies a superficial improvement or enhancement, often deceptive.

surface gloss

Indicates a shiny, attractive outer layer that conceals underlying flaws.

outward show

Emphasizes the superficial and performative aspect of the appearance.

FAQs

How can I use "thin veneer" in a sentence?

The phrase "thin veneer" describes a superficial or deceptive appearance that hides something less appealing. For example: "The politician's promises of change were just a "thin veneer" over the same old policies."

What can I say instead of "thin veneer"?

You can use alternatives like "superficial layer", "shallow facade", or "fragile disguise" depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "thin veneer" to describe a person's personality?

Yes, it's perfectly acceptable to use "thin veneer" to describe a person's personality. For example: "Beneath his "thin veneer" of charm, he was a ruthless businessman."

What's the difference between "thin veneer" and "false front"?

Both phrases imply deception, but "thin veneer" suggests a superficial cover, while "false front" implies a more elaborate and constructed deception.