Definition

The action of acting as if something is true when it is not, often for fun or to deceive.

Example

The children enjoyed pretending to be superheroes during their playtime.

Conversation

I love how kids are so good at pretending to be anything they want.

Yeah, it's amazing to watch their imagination at work.

Sometimes I wish we could be that carefree with our pretending too.

Totally! Adult life could use a bit more make-believe.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To act as if something is true when it is not, often for fun or to deceive others.

Example

The children were pretending to be superheroes during playtime.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever caught yourself pretending to be someone else in a social situation?

Yeah, sometimes I do that to avoid awkwardness.

It's funny how we feel the need to act differently sometimes, right?

Root Explanation

Pretending → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "tendere" (meaning to stretch or extend). The word describes the act of stretching the truth or reality before others, as if to create a false appearance.

Memory Tip

Think of 'stretching' ('tendere') something 'before' ('pre-') others to create a false impression — that's what pretending means.

Visually Confused Words