pretense
/prɪˈtɛns/
noun
- An attempt to make something that is not true appear true; a false show or claim.
- Their friendship was a pretense; they couldn't stand each other.
- Under the pretense of helping, he was really just snooping around.
- She made a pretense of being interested, but she was actually bored.
- A claim to have a particular quality, status, or right, especially one that is exaggerated or false.
- He has no pretense to being a professional musician — he just plays for fun.
- The company's pretense of being eco-friendly was exposed as a marketing trick.
- She dropped all pretense of modesty and accepted the award with pride.
- Behavior that is intended to impress others or seem more important than one really is; pretentiousness.
- His pretense annoyed his coworkers, who saw right through it.
- The party was full of pretense, with everyone trying to show off.
- I prefer people who are genuine and without pretense.
Synonyms