acquire a veneer
Frequency: 4.52.1 per million words
To gain a superficial layer of a particular quality.
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Examples (10)
- He managed to acquire a thin veneer of knowledge to mask his real ignorance.
- After years in the city, she began to acquire a veneer of sophistication.
- Despite his inner turmoil, he tried to acquire a veneer of calm during the meeting.
- The company attempted to acquire a veneer of environmental friendliness through marketing.
- New students often quickly acquire a veneer of confidence, even if they're still learning.
- It took him years to acquire the veneer of professionalism needed for the job.
- To fit in, she felt compelled to acquire a veneer of politeness that wasn't entirely genuine.
- Many towns strive to acquire a veneer of modernity to attract new businesses.
- The diplomat worked hard to acquire a veneer of cultural understanding before his foreign assignment.
- Despite the scandal, the politician managed to acquire a veneer of respectability again.