Words / C1

pri-TENS/prɪˈtens/

A pretence is a false display intended to deceive (British spelling; US pretense): a pretence of a full house, under a pretence. Fake (already in the dictionary) is everyday; packed talk is not a count.

Meaning

A false display intended to deceive; British spelling (from fake, already in the dictionary).

Examples

• ““Full house” is a pretence if the cell is empty; count the seats.”
• “Fake is already in this course. Show is already in this course. Packed is a vibe. A number on a certificate is the rule. Count the seats; then hang the caption if the cap still holds.”

Good to know

A false show (UK spelling). Everyday: fake (already in the dictionary). Packed copy ≠ a count.

Near in meaning

show, sham, facade

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