[Idiom] KEEP UP APPEARANCES. - Mastering the Art of Disguise in Social Settings

to pretend to be alright

The idiom 'keep up appearances' is an evocative expression that describes the act of pretending everything is fine, even when it is not. This phrase often refers to individuals or families who maintain an outward facade of happiness or success, despite facing personal hardships or disappointment. Originating from the societal pressures of Victorian England where appearance and social standing were critical, today it's used broadly. For instance, if a company is having financial troubles but continues to host lavish parties, they are keeping up appearances. This idiom warns of the dangers of valuing external perceptions over genuine well-being and teaches us that sometimes, looking beneath the surface reveals the true state of affairs.

Example Sentences

1. It's crucial to keep up appearances.

   Maintaining a respectable or acceptable public image.

2. Despite the struggles, the family kept up appearances in public.

   Maintaining a facade of normalcy despite personal struggles.

3. In the competitive corporate world, keeping up appearances is often essential.

   Keeping up a respectable image due to competitive corporate demands.