Select the antonym of the noun facade meaning an outward appearance that hides the true nature of something.

Introduction / Context:
This question tests understanding of the word facade, which is frequently used in both literal and figurative senses. Literally, a facade is the front of a building. Figuratively, it refers to a deceptive or superficial appearance that hides the actual situation or character. The task here is to choose the antonym, that is, a word whose meaning is opposite to this idea of outward show that conceals something.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target word: facade.
• Options: frontage, semblance, veneer, reality.
• The question clearly seeks a word with opposite meaning, not another synonym.
• We are dealing with the figurative meaning related to appearance versus truth.

Concept / Approach:
As a metaphor, facade means an outward show which may be false or misleading. For example, a person may keep up a facade of confidence while actually feeling nervous. The direct opposite of a deceptive outer show is the true underlying state, that is, reality. The words frontage, semblance, and veneer all relate, in various ways, to appearance, front, or surface layer. They are therefore closer in meaning to facade than opposite to it. Recognising this cluster of near synonyms guides us to pick reality as the antonym.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the figurative meaning of facade as a false front or deceptive appearance. Step 2: Look at option a, frontage. This literally means the front part of a building and is almost a literal synonym of facade. Step 3: Look at option b, semblance. This means an outward appearance or form, often one that gives a misleading impression. Step 4: Look at option c, veneer. This is a thin decorative covering on wood, and figuratively a thin layer of polite behaviour that hides the true character, similar to facade. Step 5: Look at option d, reality. This refers to the actual facts or true state of things, as opposed to appearance or imagination. Step 6: Conclude that reality is the only option that stands in opposition to the concept of a deceptive appearance.

Verification / Alternative check:
Consider an example sentence: Behind his cheerful facade lay a much sadder reality. In this sentence, facade and reality are clearly contrasted. The outward show is a cheerful facade, while the true inner situation is sadness. This natural pairing shows that reality functions as the opposite of facade when used in its figurative sense. Substituting frontage, semblance, or veneer would not produce such a meaningful contrast because they all focus on the outward side rather than the truth behind it.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
frontage: Refers to the front face of a building and is essentially a literal synonym of facade rather than its opposite.
semblance: Means an outward appearance, often deceptive, and matches the idea behind facade rather than opposing it.
veneer: A thin surface layer that hides what lies beneath, very close in meaning to a carefully maintained facade.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes confuse synonyms and antonyms, especially when several options feel similar to the target word. Here, three options cluster strongly around the idea of front or surface. The exam designer expects candidates to recognise this cluster and choose the only option that breaks away from it. To avoid such traps, always ask whether the option represents the inner truth or just another outer show. Regular reading in which facade is used in context, especially in editorials and biographies, helps in building strong intuitive understanding.

Final Answer:
The correct antonym of facade is reality, so option d is correct.