noun
pretence
prih-TEHNS
Pretence (noun) means a false show or claim, put on to disguise the truth or create a particular impression; the British spelling of "pretense". Example: “He kept up the pretence of being busy whenever the boss walked past.”
noun
1
A false show or claim, put on to disguise the truth or create a particular impression; the British spelling of "pretense".
"He kept up the pretence of being busy whenever the boss walked past."
How to use pretence
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA fake front — acting as if something is true when it isn't.
UK vs US
British English spells this "pretence"; American English uses "pretense".
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Word forms
- Plural
- pretences
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He kept up the _____ of being busy whenever the boss walked past.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for pretence
See all rhymes for pretence →Frequently asked questions
What does “pretence” mean?
The word “pretence” means a false show or claim, put on to disguise the truth or create a particular impression; the British spelling of "pretense". In plain terms, a fake front — acting as if something is true when it isn't.
How do you pronounce “pretence”?
“Pretence” is pronounced prih-TEHNS (/ˈpɹiːtɛns/ in IPA).
How do you use “pretence” in a sentence?
Here is “pretence” used in a sentence: “He kept up the pretence of being busy whenever the boss walked past.”
What part of speech is “pretence”?
“Pretence” is a noun.
