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for the sake of appearances

idiom

Definition of for the sake of appearances

: because other people think it is the proper thing to do
  • She is only attending the banquet for the sake of appearances.

Word by Word Definitions

sake play

  1. : end, purpose

  2. : the good, advantage, or enhancement of some entity (such as an ideal)

  3. : personal or social welfare, safety, or benefit

  1. : a Japanese alcoholic beverage of fermented rice often served hot

See the full definition of sake
appearance play appearances

  1. : external show : semblance

  2. : outward aspect : look

  3. : outward indication

See the full definition of appearance

Seen and Heard

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