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ersatz
Ersatz (adjective) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology
IPA:
What does ersatz mean?
Made or used as a substitute or imitation, often intended to resemble or replace something else, but ultimately lacking in authenticity or genuine quality.
"Her ersatz pearl necklace lacked the luster and elegance of the real pearls."
Detailed Meaning of Ersatz
When applied to products, objects, or even personalities, it signifies that they are not the real or original version but rather a copy or imitation that may fall short in terms of quality or authenticity. For example, ersatz leather might refer to synthetic materials designed to mimic the appearance and texture of genuine leather but without the same durability or feel. Similarly, ersatz personalities may describe people who adopt fake or contrived personas that do not reflect their true selves. "Ersatz" conveys a sense of imitation and can imply a degree of insincerity or inferiority when compared to the real thing.
Example Sentences for Ersatz
1. The restaurant served an ersatz version of the traditional dish that left much to be desired.
2. His ersatz smile did not fool anyone into thinking he was happy.
3. The fashion industry is known for producing a lot of ersatz luxury products.
4. She tried to pass off the cheap knockoff as an ersatz version of the designer handbag.
5. The ersatz coffee tasted nothing like the real thing.
6. He was disappointed to find that the hotel's breakfast included only ersatz orange juice.
Origin and Etymology of Ersatz
The adjective 'ersatz' has German origins. It is borrowed directly from the German word 'ersatz,' which means 'replacement' or 'substitute.' The German term itself is derived from 'ersetzen,' meaning 'to replace' or 'to substitute.' Therefore, the etymology of 'ersatz' conveys the idea of something that serves as a substitute or imitation. In English, it is used to describe things that are made or used as replacements or substitutes, often intended to resemble or replace something else, but ultimately lacking in authenticity or genuine quality. The term 'ersatz' underscores the concept of imitation and substitution, highlighting the idea that while something may appear to be a suitable replacement, it often falls short in terms of authenticity and true quality.
Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding
Find the correct meaning of the adjective ersatz:
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More Usage Examples of Ersatz
1. The company's ersatz marketing campaign failed to resonate with consumers.
2. The ersatz castle was built to look like a medieval fortress, but was actually a modern tourist attraction.
3. The chef used an ersatz ingredient in the recipe to make up for the lack of the real thing.
4. The ersatz chocolate bar tasted nothing like the real thing, lacking the rich flavor of genuine cocoa.
5. His ersatz leadership style failed to inspire the team, unlike the original leader's charismatic approach.
6. The ersatz silk scarf felt scratchy and uncomfortable compared to the original's luxurious texture.
7. The ersatz artwork was a poor imitation, lacking the depth and emotion of the original masterpiece.
8. Their ersatz holiday decorations couldn't capture the festive spirit as well as the original ones.
9. The ersatz leather sofa began to peel and crack, unlike the durability of genuine leather.
10. The ersatz coffee substitute left a bitter aftertaste, far from the delightful flavor of freshly brewed coffee.
11. The ersatz cheese tasted surprisingly similar to the real thing.
12. She found an ersatz solution to the missing ingredient.
13. The ersatz fire in the fireplace gave off no heat.
14. He had an ersatz sense of confidence that fooled no one.
15. The ersatz perfume smelled nothing like the original.
16. The ersatz currency was used during the wartime shortage.
17. The ersatz designer handbag was a convincing imitation.
18. She had an ersatz sense of nostalgia for a time she never experienced.
19. The ersatz knight costume was made from cardboard.
20. They used ersatz sugar in their diet to reduce calories.
Synonyms and Related Words for Ersatz
Related Vocabulary Practice
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✔ Add 3,700 must-know words to your vocabulary.
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✔ 147 categorized lessons, 428 practical activities, 632 pages.
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✔ Ideal preparation for: TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT