To be present at some place or event, but only for a short time and especially as a courtesy or for the sake of politeness

I'm too tired and I don't really want to go to my business partner's birthday party, but I think I'd better put in an appearance. I'll make my entrance, say hello and then gradually sneak out

Sono stanca e non vorrei andare alla festa di compleanno del mio socio, ma forse dovrei fare almeno atto di presenza. Faccio il mio ingresso, saluto e poi gradualmente mi defilo

My colleagues didn't know my father, but it was very polite and considerate of them to participate, and not only put in an appearance, at his funeral

I miei colleghi non conoscevano mio padre, ma è stato molto gentile e rispettoso da parte loro partecipare, e non solo fare atto di presenza, al suo funerale