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pretense

noun

/prɪˈtɛns/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of pretense

The act or behavior of pretending or feigning something, often for deceptive or misleading purposes.
"He put on a pretense of happiness, despite his inner turmoil."

Detailed meaning of pretense

It involves presenting a false appearance, pretending to possess certain qualities, or acting in a way that misrepresents one's true intentions or feelings. 'Pretense' can also describe a false or misleading claim or assertion made to create a facade or disguise one's true motives. It often involves putting on a false front, disguising one's true self or intentions behind a mask of deceit or pretension. 'Pretense' can be used in various contexts, from personal interactions and relationships to professional settings and social dynamics. It conveys the idea of presenting an unreal or deceptive image or pretending to be something or someone that one is not. Overall, 'pretense' encapsulates the concept of feigning or pretending, often with the aim of hiding one's true motives or intentions.

Example sentences containing pretense

1. She maintained a pretense of confidence, even though she was anxious inside.
2. The politician's promises were merely a pretense to gain votes.
3. Underneath her pretense of innocence, she was orchestrating a scheme.
4. The couple's pretense of a loving relationship fooled those around them.
5. He used a pretense of illness to skip school and go to the concert.
6. The company's commitment to sustainability was nothing more than a pretense for public relations.

History and etymology of pretense

The noun 'pretense' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'praetensus,' which is derived from 'praetendere,' meaning 'to stretch forth' or 'to allege falsely.' In Latin, 'praetensus' referred to a false claim or the act of pretending. As this concept made its way into Old French as 'pretense' and later into Middle English, it retained its core meaning, emphasizing the idea of engaging in the act or behavior of pretending or feigning something, often for deceptive or misleading purposes. The etymology of 'pretense' underscores its historical association with the act of falsely stretching forth a claim or behavior, highlighting its role in describing deceptive or misleading actions or behavior.

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Further usage examples of pretense

1. She saw through his pretense and recognized his true motives.
2. The child's pretense of being a superhero entertained everyone at the party.
3. The thief entered the store under the pretense of being a customer.
4. They continued their friendship out of pretense, despite growing apart.
5. His pretense of knowledge fooled no one; it was clear he had no idea what he was talking about.
6. Her pretense of innocence fooled no one in the courtroom.
7. His smile was just a pretense to hide his true feelings.
8. Sarah's pretense of confidence masked her anxiety.
9. Underneath her pretense, she was seething with anger.
10. The politician's pretense of concern for the people was transparent.
11. Their pretense of friendship concealed a bitter rivalry.
12. Alex's pretense of being fine was betrayed by his tears.
13. The thief used a pretense to gain entry to the house.
14. He maintained a pretense of cheerfulness despite his troubles.
15. Their pretense of unity was shattered by internal conflict.
16. The spy's pretense as a tourist fooled the border guards.
17. She put on a pretense of disinterest, but her curiosity was evident.
18. His pretense of humility was merely a facade.
19. The comedian's pretense of clumsiness was part of his act.
20. Their pretense of agreement was a tactic to avoid conflict.
21. Underneath her pretense, she was harboring a deep resentment.
22. The CEO's pretense of ignorance about the scandal was unbelievable.
23. He used the pretense of a headache to leave the party early.
24. Her pretense of loyalty masked her true intentions.
25. The magician's pretense of magic left the audience in awe.