pretense

[pri-tens]

pretense Definition

  • 1an attempt to make something that is not the case appear true
  • 2a false display of feelings, attitudes, or intentions
  • 3a claim, especially a false or ambitious one

Using pretense: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "pretense" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He made a pretense of being busy when I entered his office.

  • Example

    She put on a pretense of happiness, but I could tell she was upset.

  • Example

    The company's pretense of concern for the environment was exposed as a sham.

pretense Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for pretense

Phrases with pretense

  • using an excuse or reason as a cover for doing something else

    Example

    He went to the party under the pretense of meeting new people, but really he just wanted to see his ex-girlfriend.

  • to stop pretending or acting in a certain way

    Example

    It's time to drop the pretense and be honest about your feelings.

  • to maintain a certain image or reputation, even if it is not genuine

    Example

    She continued to keep up appearances even though her marriage was falling apart.

Origins of pretense

from Old French 'pretensse', from Latin 'praetensus', meaning 'stretch forth'

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Summary: pretense in Brief

Pretense [pri-tens] refers to an attempt to make something that is not the case appear true. It can also mean a false display of feelings, attitudes, or intentions, or a claim, especially a false or ambitious one. Examples include 'He made a pretense of being busy when I entered his office,' and 'The company's pretense of concern for the environment was exposed as a sham.' Phrases like 'under the pretense of' and 'drop the pretense' are common. 'Keep up appearances' is another phrase that means to maintain a certain image or reputation, even if it is not genuine.