(pronounced SEHM-blents)

This word comes from the same root as the more familiar “resemblance,” which should help you remember it. Semblance can mean a few different things: a true or obvious resemblance or likeness; the obvious and often false appearance form; an apparition (translation: ghost); or a degree or small amount of something.

Example: If Armand could just detect some semblance of remorse in his employee’s attitude regarding the significant omission she made when issuing the construction documents for bidding, then he would choose not to fire her.