apparent characteristic
[/əˈpærənt ˌkærəktəˈrɪstɪk/]
nounpl: apparent characteristics
característica aparente
1. A feature or quality that is easily seen, observed, or understood on the surface, without deeper investigation
The apparent characteristic of the mineral was its shiny surface, though further testing revealed its true composition.
A característica aparente do mineral era sua superfície brilhante, embora testes posteriores revelassem sua verdadeira composição.
2. A visible or obvious trait that may or may not reflect the true nature of something
Despite his calm apparent characteristic, he was actually nervous about the presentation.
Apesar de sua característica aparente de calma, ele estava realmente nervoso sobre a apresentação.
3. In biology and botany, an observable trait or phenotype
The apparent characteristic of red flowers is controlled by dominant genes.
A característica aparente de flores vermelhas é controlada por genes dominantes.
This term is frequently used in scientific, educational, and formal contexts in both Brazil and Portugal. In Brazilian Portuguese, it's common in biology classes when discussing genetics and phenotypes. The concept relates to the cultural emphasis on looking beyond surface-level judgments, reflected in the Portuguese idiom 'as aparências enganam' (appearances are deceiving).
Related Idioms & Phrases
things are not always as they appear
don't judge a book by its cover
appear to be something that one is not
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