pretending Definition
- 1behaving in a particular way, often to make other people believe something that is not true
- 2engaging in make-believe or imaginative play
Using pretending: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "pretending" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
She was pretending to be happy, but I could tell she was really upset.
Example
He pretended to be sick so he wouldn't have to go to work.
Example
The children were pretending to be pirates on the playground.
Example
I'm not really angry, I'm just pretending.
pretending Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for pretending
Antonyms for pretending
Phrases with pretending
pretend play
a type of play in which children use their imaginations to create scenarios and act out roles
Example
Pretend play is an important part of childhood development.
pretend friend
an imaginary friend created by a child
Example
Many children have pretend friends at some point in their childhood.
Example
She pretended to be a doctor and gave him a check-up.
Summary: pretending in Brief
To 'pretend' [priˈtɛndɪŋ] is to behave in a way that is not genuine, often to deceive others. It can also refer to imaginative play, such as when children pretend to be pirates or doctors. Examples include 'She was pretending to be happy,' and 'The children were pretending to be pirates on the playground.'