Definition

A way of behaving that is not genuine, often used to deceive others or to create a false impression.

Example

His smile was just a pretense to hide his true feelings.

Conversation

I feel like there's always a pretense when people meet for the first time.

Yeah, everyone tries to put their best foot forward, right?

Exactly! It makes me wonder what they're really like beneath that pretense.

Totally, sometimes you just want to see the real person.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pretense → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "tendere" (meaning to stretch or extend). The word refers to the act of stretching the truth or extending a false appearance before others.

Memory Tip

Think of 'stretching' the truth ('tendere') before others ('pre-') — that's why pretense means a false appearance.

Visually Confused Words