Definition

A claim or assertion that is often not supported by evidence, sometimes used to show off or create a false impression.

Example

His pretension to be an expert in the field was quickly revealed as unfounded.

Conversation

I get really annoyed by people who show off their wealth with such pretension.

Yeah, it can be pretty off-putting, right?

Exactly! It's like, just be yourself instead of putting on that pretension.

Totally! Authenticity is way more appealing.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pretension → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "tendere" (meaning to stretch). The word refers to the act of stretching forth or claiming something, often without justification.

Memory Tip

Think of someone stretching out a claim ('pre-' means before and 'tendere' means to stretch) — that's why pretension refers to an unfounded claim.

Visually Confused Words