Schijnvertoning is a term that originates from the Dutch language and translates to “pretense” or “show.” It refers to a situation where someone puts on a false front or façade in order to deceive others. This can manifest in various ways, such as pretending to be someone you’re not, hiding your true feelings or intentions, or presenting a false image of success or happiness.
In a world where social media plays a significant role in how we present ourselves to others, schijnvertoning has become increasingly common. People often curate their online personas to showcase only the best aspects of their lives, while hiding the less desirable parts. This can create a distorted view of reality, leading others to believe that everyone else is living a perfect life while they themselves are struggling.
Schijnvertoning can also be seen in the business world, where companies may exaggerate their success or downplay their failures in order to attract investors or customers. By putting on a false front, these companies may be able to secure funding or generate interest in their products or services, even if they are not as successful or reputable as they appear.
Ultimately, schijnvertoning is a form of deception that can have negative consequences for both the person putting on the show and those who are deceived by it. It can erode trust in relationships, lead to feelings of inadequacy or insecurity, and prevent authentic connections from being formed. It’s important to be mindful of the ways in which we may be engaging in schijnvertoning and strive to be more genuine and transparent in our interactions with others.