表面上(ひょうめんじょう)

ひょうめんじょう
adverb
on the surface; outwardly; ostensibly
appearance
1. on the surface; outwardly; ostensibly; superficially
Describes how something appears externally, with the implication that the reality underneath may be different. Used to contrast appearances with truth.
表面上(ひょうめんじょう)は穏(おだ)やかだった。
On the surface, things were calm.
二人(ふたり)は表面上(ひょうめんじょう)仲(なか)がいいが、実(じつ)は対立(たいりつ)している。
The two seem to get along on the surface, but in reality they are at odds.
表面上(ひょうめんじょう)は賛成(さんせい)しているように見(み)えるが、本心(ほんしん)では反対(はんたい)しているのだろう。
They appear to agree on the surface, but deep down they probably oppose it.

Usage

Almost always implies a contrast between what is seen and what is real. Frequently paired with contrasting expressions like 実(じつ)は (in reality), 本当(ほんとう)は (actually), or 裏(うら)では (behind the scenes).

Common patterns

  • 表面上(ひょうめんじょう)は〜だが、実(じつ)は〜 (on the surface it's ~, but actually ~)
  • 表面上(ひょうめんじょう)〜に見(み)える (appears ~ on the surface)

Similar words

  • 見(み)かけ上(じょう): in appearance — similar but slightly more casual
  • 一見(いっけん): at first glance — focuses on initial impression
  • 外見上(がいけんじょう): in outward appearance — more formal

Related Words

Synonym: 一見(いっけん) (at first glance)
general
Added 2026.3.19 13:24 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01
17500/17830_hyoumenjou