Word
guise
US/ˈɡaɪz/
UK/ɡˈaɪz/
Definitions
01outward appearance
C1 · Advanced Countable noun Formal · Literary
n. the way someone or something looks or seems on the outside.
n. an external appearance, manner, or dress; the way in which something is presented to the world.
“The story was published in the guise of a children's book, but it was actually for adults.”
“The tax was introduced under the guise of an environmental protection measure, though its primary function was to reduce the national deficit.”
Usage
Often used in the phrase 'under the guise of' or 'in the guise of'.
Teaching tip
This word is almost always used to suggest that the appearance is temporary or deceptive, even if it doesn't explicitly mean 'a lie'.
Synonyms
02a deceptive cover
C1 · Advanced Countable noun Formal · Literary
n. a false appearance used to hide the truth.
n. a misleading or deceptive outward appearance; a 'cloak' used to hide one's true motives or identity.
“The spy entered the country in the guise of a humble traveling salesman.”
“He managed to gain access to the private archives under the guise of a visiting researcher from a prestigious university.”
Teaching tip
Remind students that 'guise' is etymologically related to 'disguise', which helps them remember the element of deception.
Real-World Examples
“Both women had a decided preference for open, honest enemies over ‘concealed enemies’ in the guise of friends.” “The records have added fuel to the concerns of civil rights groups , who have argued that the federal government was criminalizing lawful protest activity under the guise of targeting leftwing “terrorism”.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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