noun
Augenwischerei
window dressing
The German word "Augenwischerei" is a noun composed of:
- "Augen" (eyes), and
- "wischerei" (from "wischen", meaning "to wipe" or "to clean")
Literally, it means "eye-wiping," but figuratively it refers to "deception," "window dressing," or "whitewashing"—actions intended to mislead or create a false impression.
Similar words:
- Täuschung (deception)
- Scheinheiligkeit (hypocrisy)
- Irreführung (misleading)
Difference:
- Augenwischerei specifically implies a superficial or cosmetic action meant to cover up the real situation, often in a misleading way.
- Täuschung is broader and includes any kind of deception.
- Scheinheiligkeit emphasizes insincerity or false piety.
- Irreführung focuses on actively leading someone astray or onto the wrong path.
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Examples
Das ist nur Augenwischerei.noun
That is just window dressing.
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