der Anstrich
Translation
coat of paint, appearance, veneer, look
Examples
Die Wand braucht einen neuen Anstrich.
The wall needs a new coat of paint.
Er gab sich den Anstrich eines Experten.
He gave himself the appearance of an expert.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.dat)) a ((new/fresh)) coat of paint to give sth. a new coat of paint The facade was given a new coat of paint.
to give oneself ((the appearance of sth.gen)) to give oneself the appearance of sth. He gave himself the appearance of an innocent man.
Similar Words
Synonyms: die Bemalung (painting), die Fassade (facade), der Schein (appearance)
Etymology
From the verb 'anstreichen' (to paint). 'an-' (on) + 'streichen' (to stroke, paint). Literally 'a stroking on' or 'painting on'.
Memory Tips
Think of it as both a physical 'coat' of paint and a figurative 'coat' or 'veneer' of an emotion or quality.