What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
conceit
Example
His conceit was evident in the way he talked about his accomplishments. [conceit: noun]
Example
She was so conceited that she never listened to anyone else's opinions. [conceited: adjective]
pretension
Example
His pretensions of being a great artist were quickly exposed when his work was criticized. [pretensions: noun]
Example
She put on airs of pretension, trying to impress everyone with her knowledge of art. [pretension: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pretension is more commonly used than conceit in everyday language. Pretension is a more versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while conceit is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between conceit and pretension?
Both conceit and pretension are associated with a negative connotation and are generally considered informal words. However, pretension can be used in more formal contexts, such as academic writing or professional settings, while conceit is less likely to be used in such situations.
