true face

USAGE SUMMARY

"true face" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
"True face" is typically used in place of the phrase "true character" or "true nature" and is used to refer to someone's true behavior or identity behind a mask or facade. For example, "After much hardship, the true face of his success started to finally show."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They are the true face of Britain.

The Economist

You don't know Saakashvili's true face.

The Guardian

This was the true face of beauty.

The Guardian - Books

What is the true face of evil?

The Guardian - Arts

Mine is the true face of vampires.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It's seeing the true face of things, not the mask.

The New Yorker

Does our protective mask not become our true face?

The New York Times

"She is the true face of Pakistan," he added.

The New York Times

"This is a true face of men going into action.

The New York Times

But could he be the true face William Shakespeare?

The Guardian

It shows the true face of News International.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "true face" to reveal a contrast between outward appearance and inner reality, adding depth to your descriptions.

Common error

Avoid using "true face" in literal contexts (e.g., describing a physical appearance). Reserve it for metaphorical situations where you're unveiling hidden characteristics or intentions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "true face" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object of a verb. It describes a reality that is hidden or revealed. As Ludwig AI explains, it replaces the phrase "true character" or "true nature".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "true face" serves as a powerful tool for unveiling hidden realities and genuine characteristics. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions as a noun phrase often used to replace "true character" or "true nature". Its versatility allows it to feature prominently across various registers, from news articles to formal business reports. This expression, while appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, is most effective when used to reveal a contrast between outward appearance and inner reality. Avoid misinterpreting its literal meaning; instead, leverage its metaphorical strength to add depth and insight to your writing. With its frequent use and consistent application, "true face" remains a reliable and impactful expression in the English language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

true colors

Highlights someone's real personality, especially when it is unflattering.

real nature

Focuses on the inherent qualities of something, often in contrast to its perceived image.

actual character

Emphasizes the genuine traits of a person or entity, stripping away any pretenses.

underlying reality

Highlights the truth beneath a superficial appearance or understanding.

genuine self

Refers to the authentic identity of an individual, often concealed or suppressed.

true essence

Highlights the fundamental nature of something, beyond superficial attributes.

hidden agenda

Implies a secret and often less honorable motive behind someone's actions.

real intentions

Emphasizes the actual motives behind actions, which may be different from stated reasons.

inner self

Refers to the private and authentic part of a person, often different from their public persona.

core identity

Focuses on the essential and unchanging aspects of a person or thing.

FAQs

How can I use "true face" in a sentence?

You can use "true face" to describe the reality of a situation or person that is often hidden or disguised. For example, "The scandal revealed the "true face" of the corporation, showing its disregard for ethical practices."

What phrases are similar to "true face"?

Similar phrases include "real nature", "actual character", or "underlying reality". These all suggest uncovering what is genuinely present beneath a facade.

Is "true face" an appropriate phrase to use in formal writing?

Yes, "true face" is appropriate for formal writing. It is widely used in news articles, academic papers, and business reports to express that a person or a situation is very different than perceived.

What's the difference between "true face" and "mask"?

While "true face" represents the real self or nature, a "mask" is what someone presents to the world to conceal their "true face". The mask is the artificial persona, and the "true face" is the reality underneath.