Laxi Dictionary

American Dictionary

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Definition pretense in American English

pretense noun

[countable/uncountable] noun
/ˈpriˌtens/
1

a way of behaving that does not honestly express your real feelings, thoughts, or intentions

Example

She said she was really pleased to see us, but I could tell it was just a pretense.

Example

Harper was convicted without even the pretense of a proper trial.

Example

Yeltsin, now seriously ill, had given up any pretense of being in charge.

Example

A man stopped her on the pretense of asking directions.

Example

Alex made no pretense of hiding her disappointment.

Synonyms and related words
spot fixing ploy hoax
Definition pretense in American English