German word

Anschein

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈanʃaɪ̯n/

Meaning

  • masculine nounappearance

Example

Dem Anschein nach ist das Buch interessant.

Judging by appearances, the book is interesting.

Illustration for Anschein (appearance)

More examples

Auf den ersten Anschein wirkt das Gemälde modern.

At first glance, the painting looks modern.

Core concept

A first visual read of a person or thing that can look convincing without proving the facts.

Common phrases

  • den Anschein haben

    give the impression

  • äußeren Anschein wahren

    maintain an outward appearance

  • auf den ersten Anschein

    at first glance

Similar words

Schein: The surface appearance noticed on first viewing.
Aussehen: A person's visible look, including facial expression and clothing.
Äußeres: The external appearance of a person or thing.

Definition in German

Ein äußerlich wahrgenommener Eindruck, der nicht unbedingt mit der Wirklichkeit übereinstimmen muss.

Word origin

The noun developed from Middle High German anschîn, formed with an- and schîn 'appearance'; Schein is historically connected with shining and seeming.

Usage tips

  • Anschein is masculine, so the definite article is der and the genitive form is des Anscheins.

Other meanings

  • impressionnoun

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word