Synonyms for

Pretend

Verb / pri:ˈtend / Another word for pretend — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to act as if something is true when it is not

Synonyms & similar words

makebelieve sham dissemble hazard profess act affect feign guess make venture feign simulate fake assume dissimulate dissemble masquerade posture profess sham showboat pose fabricate invent

Synonyms by register

Formal

feign simulate affect dissemble

Informal

fake it put on an act play along bluff

Literary

disguise masquerade counterfeit

Antonyms

real actual genuine authentic true sincere

Common collocations

  • pretend to be
  • pretend to have
  • pretend to do
  • pretend to know
  • pretend to like
  • pretend to be sick

Word family

noun pretense
verb pretend
adjective pretentious

Usage note

Often used with 'to' followed by an infinitive or a clause. Be mindful of the connotation of insincerity or deception.

Example sentences

  1. He likes to pretend he is a superhero.
  2. The children like to pretend they are pirates.
  3. She pretended to be sick to stay home from school.
  4. He pretended he didn't see the cookies on the counter.
  5. She pretended to be interested in his story.

Quotes

  • “I always thought we had to follow in the footsteps of those who came before us. But when you find the person who makes your heart beat faster, you have to be prepared to risk everything and start a whole new journey. It might be tough, but if it's with you, I want to pretend to be a hero just like you, Kyo.” - Tohru Honda
  • “He was pretending to be a lunatic, but it was hard work being sane under the circumstances.” - Maya Angelou
  • “I don't want to pretend anymore. I feel like I'm lying all the time. I hate it.” - Rainbow Rowell

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