French Conversation · Level 100
59 words
French word
simulacre
Pronunciation
IPA/simylakʁ/
Meaning
- masculine nounsham
Example
Ce procès n'est qu'un simulacre.
This trial is nothing but a sham.
More examples
Cette promesse est un simulacre.
This promise is a sham.
Core concept
A convincing shell that imitates reality while lacking what should make it real.
Similar words
apparence: The visible outward look or impression of something.
illusion: A false impression or perception that does not match reality.
tromperie: An act or device intended to mislead people.
Definition in French
Mise en scène qui donne l'apparence du réel sans en reproduire la réalité ni la sincérité.
Word origin
French inherited simulacre from Latin simulacrum, meaning an image or likeness, which came from simulare, meaning to imitate.
Usage tips
- Simulacre often sounds formal or critical in political and legal contexts, while apparence is broader and more neutral.