Fronts

In its plural form, 'fronts' refers to the outward appearances or façades of something, particularly when these mask a hidden reality or inner truth. It can describe the external facing side of a building or a more metaphorical representation, such as a public persona. Furthermore, 'fronts' also applies to physical boundaries where opposing forces meet or where activities are concentrated, like a war front or the front lines of social change. It signifies something that's positioned at the beginning or the leading edge, whether tangible or abstract, or used to cover up something else.

Fronts meaning with examples

• The company put up various PR fronts, releasing information to the media. Despite their attempts to portray themselves as a sustainable and ethically driven business, investigative journalism eventually revealed they were actively polluting waterways. This public facade carefully concealed practices, and it was a calculated attempt to conceal the truth.
• During the war, both sides built strategic fronts along the river. The main focus of the fighting took place in the forward positions, while the rear dealt with supply and recovery. These areas of concentrated conflict dictated where troops were sent and where supplies needed to flow. Many of the front-line forces were replaced often
• Politicians often construct polished public fronts to create a better image. Behind those well-crafted speeches and carefully chosen photo opportunities often lies a different set of values, and often a disregard for the truth. This image is meticulously built to appeal to voters and to maintain their power.
• The building's impressive architectural fronts hid a complex system. The public viewed an ornate design. In the walls was infrastructure, including structural supports and heating and air systems. This hidden infrastructure contrasted the external artistry of the buildings appearance to any casual onlooker.
• Activists used peaceful protests as fronts for the radical underground. Though they presented their activities as peaceful, they were secretly planning and funding violent acts. This carefully maintained perception was a tactic to misdirect authorities from their true agendas and objectives.