What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
feigned
Example
She feigned interest in his story, but she was really bored. [feigned: verb]
Example
His feigned enthusiasm for the project fooled no one. [feigned: adjective]
pretended
Example
He pretended to be sick so he could skip school. [pretended: verb]
Example
Her pretended concern for her friend was obvious to everyone. [pretended: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pretended is more commonly used than feigned in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between feigned and pretended?
Feigned is more formal than pretended.
