pretensions

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.

In short, it was perfect for an adolescent boy of burgeoning but unformed pretensions.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 5, 2026

In 1956, shortly before his death, Mencken went even further; “American journalism is predominantly paltry and worthless. Its pretensions are enormous, but its achievements are insignificant.”

From Salon • Apr. 26, 2025

Nauman’s, however, is refreshingly without illusions or pretensions.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2025

However, Wales will relish the chance to stick a spanner in the spokes and puncture such title pretensions.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2025

“And you call yourself an artist! What pretensions, Madame! The artist must possess the courageous soul that dares and defies.”

From "The Awakening" by Kate Chopin