表面现象
what things look like or seem to be rather than what they actually are
He was a far more complicated man than outward appearances suggested. 他这个人实际上很难懂，与其外表相去甚远。
Judging by appearances, the organizers have spent a lot of money on the event.
She seemed friendly and easy-going, but appearances can be deceiving.
We are concerned that the committee is concerned with appearances rather than reality.
Contrary to appearances, the Scottish government did not change much during those years.
See also: appearance (WAY YOU LOOK)