What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
affectation
Example
Her British accent was just an affectation to sound more sophisticated. [affectation: noun]
Example
He spoke with an affectation of authority, but it was clear he didn't know what he was talking about. [affectation: noun]
pretension
Example
His pretensions of being a world-class chef were quickly exposed when he burned the soup. [pretensions: plural noun]
Example
She had a pretentious way of speaking that made it hard to take her seriously. [pretentious: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pretension is more commonly used than affectation in everyday language. Pretension is a versatile word that can be used to describe a wide range of behaviors and attitudes, while affectation is less common and more specific in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between affectation and pretension?
Both affectation and pretension are formal words that are typically used in more serious or critical contexts. However, pretension may be considered slightly more formal due to its broader scope and more intense connotations.
