verb

pose

pohz

verb

To hold a particular position of the body, often for a photo or painting.

"The models posed for the camera on the rooftop."

"He posed proudly next to his new car."

To present or create a problem, risk, or question.

"Rising sea levels pose a serious threat to coastal towns."

"The interviewer posed a tricky question about her past."

To pretend to be someone or something else, usually to deceive.

"The scammer posed as a bank representative."

noun

A particular position of the body, or an affected, showy manner.

"She struck a dramatic pose for the magazine cover."

How to Use Pose

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo hold a body position for effect, to present a problem or question, or to falsely pretend to be someone.

Common mistake

Don't confuse "pose a question" (ask) with "pose a threat" (create danger) — same word, different flavor of meaning depending on what follows it.

Common pairings

pose a threat pose a question pose as pose for a photo

posed past tense, posed past tense, poses plural, poses plural, poses singular, poses singular

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The models _____ for the camera on the rooftop.

From Old French poser, "to place or put," ultimately from Latin pausare ("to pause, rest").

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