semblance; appearance; outward show
Refers to a superficial or deceptive appearance, often contrasting with reality. Used in formal or philosophical contexts.
彼の親切は仮象に過ぎなかった。
His kindness was nothing more than a semblance.
仮象と実体を区別するのは難しい。
It is difficult to distinguish between appearance and reality.
Compound of 仮 (temporary, false) and 象 (image, phenomenon). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the word is used in modern Japanese to express a deceptive or illusory appearance, likely influenced by philosophical terminology.