for the sake of appearances
phrase
: because other people think it is the proper thing to do
She is only attending the banquet for the sake of appearances.
Cite this Entry
“For the sake of appearances.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/for%20the%20sake%20of%20appearances. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026.
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
