unmasking

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Unmasking

Definition:
"Unmasking" is a noun that refers to the act of revealing or exposing someone who is pretending to be something they are not. This can apply to a person who is pretending or hiding their true identity (like an impostor or a fraud) or to uncovering hidden truths about a situation.

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "unmasking" can also refer to revealing deeper truths or insights in various fields, such as psychology, literature, or politics.

Word Variants:

• Unmask (verb): To reveal someone’s true identity or nature.
  • Example: "The detective worked hard to unmask the criminal."
• Unmasked (adjective): Describing someone or something that has been revealed.
  • Example: "The unmasked villain was finally brought to justice."

Different Meanings:

1. Literal Meaning: Removing a physical mask from someone's face.
   • Example: "The magician's trick involved unmasking the assistant who had been hiding behind a curtain."
2. Figurative Meaning: Revealing the truth about a person’s character or intentions.

Synonyms:

• Exposing
• Revealing
• Disclosing
• Unveiling

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there are no direct idioms that use "unmasking," you can use related phrases: - "Take off the mask": This can mean to reveal one’s true self or intentions. - Example: "She decided it was time to take off the mask and show her real feelings."

Summary:

"Unmasking" is an important concept in English that relates to revealing truths, whether about people, situations, or societal issues. It can be used in various contexts, from everyday conversation to more complex discussions in literature or politics.

Academic

Noun

1. the exposure of an impostor or a fraud
   • he published an expose of the graft and corruption in city government

Synonyms

• expose