Meaning of the word pretend in English

What does pretend mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

pretend

US /prɪˈtend/

UK /prɪˈtend/

behave so as to make it appear that something is the case when in fact it is not

Example:

•

He likes to pretend he's a superhero.

•

Let's pretend we're on a desert island.

Synonym:

feign simulate make believe playact put on an act

claim, especially falsely

Example:

•

He didn't pretend to be an expert.

•

She pretended not to hear him.

Synonym:

claim allege assert profess affect

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