Synonyms for

Pretends

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

Definition

To behave as if something is true when it is not.

Synonyms & similar words

dissemble act guess sham feign hazard makebelieve affect profess venture pretend make act feign simulate dissemble fake fabricate invent playact pose assume mask hide cloak veil camouflage misrepresent deceive

Synonyms by register

Formal

feigns simulates affects

Informal

fakes puts on acts like

Literary

dissembles counterfeits

Antonyms

confirms reveals shows discloses admits acknowledges demonstrates

Common collocations

  • pretends to be
  • pretends to know
  • pretends not to see
  • pretends to care
  • pretends to understand
  • pretends to be rich
  • pretends to be asleep

Word family

noun pretense
verb pretend
adjective pretentious

Usage note

Often followed by 'to be' or 'to' + infinitive. Can imply deception or innocent play.

Example sentences

  1. He pretends to be a superhero when he wears his cape.
  2. She pretends to cook food using her toy kitchen set.
  3. He pretends to be asleep when he doesn't want to go to school.
  4. She pretends to be a doctor when she plays with her dolls.
  5. He pretends to be a firefighter when he wears his helmet.

Quotes

  • “It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live, remember that.” - J.K. Rowling
  • “The only way to deal with fear is to face it head-on.” - Harry Potter
  • “I solemnly swear I am up to no good.” - Harry Potter

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