formal10K+

UK//ˈkiː.pɪŋ ʌp əˈpɪə.rənsɪz//US//ˈkipɪŋ ʌp əˈpɪr.ənsɪz//

Meaning of Keeping up appearances

Maintaining a certain image or impression despite difficulties or reality.

In simple words: Trying to look good or proper even if it's not true.

Keeping up appearances in a sentence

  • Despite their financial struggles, they continued keeping up appearances at social events.
  • She was always keeping up appearances, even when she felt unhappy inside.
  • He believes in keeping up appearances, no matter how much pressure it puts on him.
  • Keeping up appearances can often lead to stress and burnout.

How to use Keeping up appearances

This idiom is often used in formal contexts when discussing social expectations. It may be less appropriate in casual situations or among close friends.

Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Imagine someone carefully polishing their shoes to maintain a perfect look.

Related words

Collocations with Keeping up appearances

  • keeping up appearances at social functions
  • keeping up appearances in the workplace
  • keeping up appearances for the family
  • struggling to keep up appearances
  • need to keep up appearances

Synonyms for Keeping up appearances

  • putting on a front
  • maintaining a facade
  • pretending
  • keeping face
  • projecting an image

Common mistakes with Keeping up appearances

  • Confused with 'keeping up with appearances' which is incorrect.
  • Used inappropriately in casual speech; better for formal discussions.
  • Misunderstood as only about clothing, rather than overall behavior.

Keeping up appearances appears in

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Frequently asked questions about Keeping up appearances

What does Keeping up appearances mean?

Trying to look good or proper even if it's not true.

What is the definition of Keeping up appearances?

Maintaining a certain image or impression despite difficulties or reality.

How do you use Keeping up appearances in a sentence?

Despite their financial struggles, they continued keeping up appearances at social events.

Can you give another example of Keeping up appearances?

She was always keeping up appearances, even when she felt unhappy inside.

What are synonyms for Keeping up appearances?

Common alternatives include putting on a front, maintaining a facade, pretending, keeping face, projecting an image.

What words go with Keeping up appearances?

It commonly pairs with keeping up appearances at social functions, keeping up appearances in the workplace, keeping up appearances for the family, struggling to keep up appearances, need to keep up appearances.

What are common mistakes when using Keeping up appearances?

Confused with 'keeping up with appearances' which is incorrect. Used inappropriately in casual speech; better for formal discussions. Misunderstood as only about clothing, rather than overall behavior.

How do you pronounce Keeping up appearances?

US: //ˈkipɪŋ ʌp əˈpɪr.ənsɪz//, UK: //ˈkiː.pɪŋ ʌp əˈpɪə.rənsɪz//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Keeping up appearances formal or informal?

"Keeping up appearances" is formal, so it fits professional, business, or academic conversations.

When should I use Keeping up appearances?

This idiom is often used in formal contexts when discussing social expectations. It may be less appropriate in casual situations or among close friends.