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

Formal and Informal Expressions of pretense

In different contexts, you can replace 'pretense' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'false display, claim' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'fake, front' is a commonplace synonym.

pretense: Explore its Definition & Usage

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

Synonyms for pretense

Antonyms for pretense

Phrases with pretense

under the pretense of
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.
drop the pretense
to stop pretending or acting in a certain way
Example
It's time to drop the pretense and be honest about your feelings.
keep up appearances
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.