Pretending

Pretending refers to the act of behaving as though something is true when it is not. It involves feigning a feeling, a belief, a quality, or a situation. Pretending can be a conscious and deliberate act, often for entertainment or deception, or it can be subconscious, arising from a desire to fit in or avoid unpleasant realities. It entails an outward presentation that doesn't reflect inner thoughts, beliefs, or the true state of affairs. The degree of awareness varies, sometimes involving elaborate performances and other times subtle displays. It can occur across various contexts, from childhood play to professional roles.

Pretending meaning with examples

• The children spent the afternoon Pretending they were brave explorers, building forts in the backyard and imagining they were facing dangerous animals. They made up stories and used their imaginations to create a world of adventure. Their games involved elaborate scenarios. Despite their age, this wasn't a dishonest act as they knew it was just for fun.
• Knowing the truth, she decided to play it safe. She kept Pretending to be happy at the party, even though she felt utterly miserable. She managed to put on a cheerful face and laugh at all the jokes. This facade was created to prevent any conflict with her peers, which would be unpleasant.
• He was Pretending to understand the complex instructions, nodding along, because he was afraid to admit his confusion. He was worried about appearing foolish. This charade helped avoid embarrassment; however, it would be better to be honest. Honesty is often better than keeping up the pretence.
• The actor was lauded for his ability in Pretending to be a convincing villain, embodying all the dark aspects of the character. The performance demanded a complete embrace of the persona, despite any personal feelings. His acting helped bring the story to life, adding suspense.
• During the job interview, she knew she was underprepared but kept Pretending to have relevant experience, hoping to land the position. She exaggerated her accomplishments to present herself as a suitable candidate. Although dishonest, she believed it was necessary to get hired, and so she tried to portray herself favorably.