vain 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.
But until they are willing to throw aside their vain pretensions of being the salt of the earth and better than others, I am afraid little can be done.
From The Unknown Wrestler by Cody, H. A. (Hiram Alfred)
In the times of its inventor, and for many succeeding ages, it was expressive of modesty and worth; in our days it is the badge of impudence and vain pretensions.
From An Essay on the Beautiful From the Greek of Plotinus by Taylor, Thomas
How well Thou canst frustrate all the false wisdom of men, and triumph over their vain pretensions!
From The Autobiography of Madame Guyon by Guyon, Jeanne Marie Bouvier de la Motte
He felt so much and so justly annoyed by Miss Dora's vain pretensions, that he forgot his anxiety about the secret conference in the summer-house.
From The Perpetual Curate by Oliphant, Mrs. (Margaret)
Beyond apparently imposing upon Sir Stafford Northcote, Disraeli himself never made any vain pretensions to be devoted to pursuits for which he did not care a rap.
From In the Name of the Bodleian and Other Essays by Birrell, Augustine
