appearance

word

/əˈpɪɹəns/
uh-PEER-uhns
/ɐpˈiəɹəns/
uh-PEER-uhns

Definition

Appearance is the way someone or something looks from the outside. It can also mean the act of arriving or being seen in a place, event, or media.

Usage & Nuances

Often used in formal or neutral contexts: 'physical appearance', 'general appearance', 'public appearance'. Be careful: for looks, it is usually uncountable in a general sense ('Appearance matters'), but for events of showing up, it is countable ('He made two appearances'). 'Look' is more common in everyday speech for style or expression.

Example Sentences

Her appearance changed after the haircut.

basic

The dog's appearance scared the children, but it was friendly.

basic

The apartment has a modern appearance, but it's actually quite old.

natural

His first appearance on TV was last year.

basic

Don't judge competence by appearance alone.

natural

Her surprise appearance at the party got everyone talking.

natural