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deceptive exterior

[dɪˈsɛptɪv ɪkˈstɪriər]
noun phrasepl: deceptive exteriors
aparência enganosa
1. A misleading or false outward appearance that conceals the true nature or reality of something or someone
The deceptive exterior of the antique box hid its worthlessness inside.
A aparência enganosa da caixa antiga ocultava seu valor insignificante por dentro.
2. A superficial or false impression that differs from actual qualities or intentions
His calm deceptive exterior masked a turbulent inner world.
Sua aparência enganosa calma mascarava um mundo interior turbulento.
NYC Slang
put-on; front
Synonyms
misleading appearancefalse frontdeceptive appearancedisguisefaçadefalse impressionsuperficial appearance
Antonyms
genuine appearanceauthentic exteriorhonest appearancetransparent nature

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
aparência enganosa; exterior enganador
Most common usage in Brazilian Portuguese
São Paulo
aparência enganosa
Standard usage
Rio de Janeiro
aparência de enganação; fachada falsa
Colloquial alternatives
Portugal
aparência enganadora; exterior ilusório
Standard European Portuguese usage

Related Idioms & Phrases

don't judge a book by its cover
appearances can be deceiving
all that glitters is not gold
wolf in sheep's clothing
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