pretending

[priˈtɛndɪŋ]

pretending Definition

• 1. behaving in a particular way, often to make other people believe something that is not true
• 2. engaging 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

• feigning
• faking
• acting
• simulating
• dissembling

Antonyms for pretending

• revealing
• disclosing

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.

• pretend to be someone/something

  to act as if you are someone or something else

  Example

  She pretended to be a doctor and gave him a check-up.

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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.'