Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

pretense

[pri-tens, pree-tens] / prɪˈtɛns, ˈpri tɛns /


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He was instead dispensing with even the pretense that he was open to hearing the Obama administration’s arguments.

From Salon • Apr. 22, 2026

Shredded was the pretense that men’s Division I basketball and football players are amateurs—and the NCAA’s ability to regulate sports.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 29, 2026

“It’s a terrible idea to move swiftly and not have the really complicated and challenging process that is required to actually work towards more than a superficial pretense of revisionist history,” Gudis said.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 21, 2026

Yet he did not muster even the pretense of evidence that they pose an “imminent threat.”

From Slate • Feb. 28, 2026

Sheets and blankets had been hung between the various living quarters to make a pretense of privacy.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom




Vocabulary lists containing pretense


Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "pretense" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com