dissembling
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /dɪˈsɛmblɪŋ/
KK: /dɪˈsɛmblɪŋ/
noun
Definition
The act of hiding one's true feelings or intentions by pretending to be something else.
Example
His dissembling made it hard for others to trust him.
Conversation
I can't believe he got away with that whole situation.
I know, it was like he was just dissembling the entire time.
It's frustrating to see someone be so dishonest.
Totally, I just wish people would be more genuine.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
deception
dissimulation
pretense
Antonyms
honesty
openness
sincerity
verb
Definition
To hide one's true feelings or intentions by pretending to be something else.
Example
She was dissembling her true emotions during the meeting.
Tense Forms
Past: dissembled
Past Participle: dissembled
Conversation
I feel like he's just dissembling about his feelings.
Yeah, it’s hard to tell what he really thinks sometimes.
Exactly! I wish he would just be honest.
Root Explanation
Dissembling → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "simulare" (meaning to pretend or feign). The word describes the act of pretending or hiding one's true feelings or intentions, effectively putting on a false appearance.
Memory Tip
Think of 'dis-' meaning apart and 'simulare' meaning to pretend — this helps you remember that dissembling is about putting on a false front or hiding the truth.
Visually Confused Words
undissembling
undissemblingly