1
as in pretense
a display of emotion or behavior that is insincere or intended to deceive
tried to project some semblance of confidence even though public speaking terrified her
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in appearance
outward and often deceptive indication
a used-car dealer with only a semblance of honesty
Synonyms & Similar Words
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of semblance
In this moment of political and economic chaos, does your brain long for a semblance of order?
—
Lewis Gordon, Vulture, 19 Mar. 2025
If the Magic want to make a playoff push in the final stretch of the regular season, Orlando will have to find some semblance of success on the road.
—Jason Beede, Orlando Sentinel, 7 Mar. 2025
And while a 14-5 Duke run after halftime seemed to erase any semblance that this would wind up a close contest, that foul trouble once again reared its head late.
—Brendan Marks, New York Times, 28 Mar. 2025
Without any semblance of reciprocity, the relationship deteriorated.
—Michael B. G. Froman, Foreign Affairs, 25 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for semblance
Lewis Gordon, Vulture, 19 Mar. 2025
If the Magic want to make a playoff push in the final stretch of the regular season, Orlando will have to find some semblance of success on the road.
—Jason Beede, Orlando Sentinel, 7 Mar. 2025
And while a 14-5 Duke run after halftime seemed to erase any semblance that this would wind up a close contest, that foul trouble once again reared its head late.
—Brendan Marks, New York Times, 28 Mar. 2025
Without any semblance of reciprocity, the relationship deteriorated.
—Michael B. G. Froman, Foreign Affairs, 25 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for semblance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for semblance
Noun
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Moore befriended Shakespeare in 2008 under the pretense of writing a book about him, but the project never materialized.—
Nicole Acosta,
People.com,
18 Apr. 2025
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What To Know According to court documents reviewed by NewsNation, Piccolo is accused of driving up to a woman in Manatee County, stopping his vehicle under the pretense of asking for directions and then exposing himself.—
Nicholas Creel,
MSNBC Newsweek,
18 Apr. 2025
Noun
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In her four seasons playing at UConn, Bueckers took the Huskies to four Final Fours, two National Championship game appearances and eight BIG EAST titles.—
Adam Zagoria,
Forbes.com,
15 Apr. 2025
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Joao Pedro, who scored both goals from the penalty spot against Leicester, is the next-highest attacking player on the appearances list (22).—
Andy Naylor,
New York Times,
14 Apr. 2025
Noun
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Its grand facade, looming over the misty abyss of Tequendama Falls, is the kind of place that invites amazement and a little unease.—
Josh Rivera,
USA Today,
18 Apr. 2025
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Fact to know: In collaboration with the Dilworth Historic Commission, the project team used traditional materials and techniques — including the help of a master stonemason with access to original quarries — to ensure consistency with the church’s limestone facade.—
Heidi Finley,
Charlotte Observer,
18 Apr. 2025
Noun
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But markets are betting on more stimulus being rolled out soon in the face of the escalating China-U.S. trade war.—
Hannah Lang and Rae Wee,
USA Today,
22 Apr. 2025
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His story is particularly notable for his defense of the Maratha kingdom and his legendary courage in the face of adversity.—
Naman Ramachandran,
Variety,
21 Apr. 2025
Noun
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In fact, in a former guise this was the first company in China to manufacture automobiles.—
James Morris,
Forbes.com,
29 Mar. 2025
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All would come under the guise of respect for local norms.—
David Faris,
Newsweek,
17 Mar. 2025
Noun
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The scientists, led by fossil track specialist Conner Bennett, used advanced 3D imaging techniques to identify and analyze four sets of vertebrate trace fossils, including impressions left behind by prehistoric birds, mammals, lizards and invertebrates.—
Jonathan Limehouse,
USA Today,
20 Apr. 2025
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Chido Obi has made such an impression in fleeting senior cameos that not registering the 17-year-old for the Europa League could be regarded as an oversight.—
Mark Critchley,
New York Times,
19 Apr. 2025
Noun
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The show will explore the intersection of design, storytelling, and innovation, offering a rare glimpse into how truly great products are made.—
Chris Gallagher,
USA Today,
14 Apr. 2025
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However, pastel purple is very much a show stopper in nail design.—
Celeste Polanco,
Essence,
14 Apr. 2025
Noun
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Pending a final regulatory review, the rules are expected to go into effect for the upcoming season.—
Melissa Cristina Márquez,
Forbes.com,
14 Apr. 2025
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The postal service’s current prices went into effect on January 19, the agency said on its website.—
Saleen Martin,
USA Today,
14 Apr. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Semblance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/semblance. Accessed 24 Apr. 2025.
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