What do pretenses mean?
Definition of pretense 1 : a claim made or implied especially : one not supported by fact. 2a : mere ostentation : pretentiousness confuse dignity with pomposity and pretense— Bennett Cerf. b : a pretentious act or assertion. 3 : an inadequate or insincere attempt to attain a certain condition or quality.
What is an example of pretense?
The definition of a pretense is a false impression, a false claim or an attempt to make a falsehood appear true. An example of a pretense is when you pretend to be friends with someone you don’t like. An example of a pretense is when you claim to be an expert in something you aren’t. noun.
What does on the Pretence mean?
Definition of under/on the pretense of : using as a false reason or explanation (something that is used to hide the real purpose of something) He called her under/on the pretense of asking about the homework assignment.
What does it mean to be without pretense?
Adverb. In candid or direct manner without reserve. openly. frankly.
What does have no pretensions mean?
If you say that someone has pretensions, you disapprove of them because they claim or pretend that they are more important than they really are. [disapproval] Her wide-eyed innocence soon exposes the pretensions of the art world. [ + of] We like him for his honesty, his lack of pretension.
Is pretense the same as pretentious?
As nouns the difference between pretentiousness and pretense is that pretentiousness is the quality of being pretentious while pretense is (us) a false or hypocritical profession, as, under pretense of friendliness.
Is a pretense always false?
Pretense involves deceiving on purpose, and it’s usually something you shouldn’t be proud of. Under the pretense of being a college student, you might sneak into a library restricted to enrolled students. That’s dishonest and deceitful. But pretense isn’t always bad.
What does false pretense?
Legal Definition of false pretenses : false representations concerning past or present facts that are made with the intent to defraud another also : the crime of obtaining title to another’s property by false pretenses — compare larceny by trick at larceny, theft.
Is pretensions the same as pretentious?
“Pretension” means a false or unsupportable claim to merit, inheritance or superiority. “Pretentiousness” is the noun for making a claim for distinction over others, especially undeservedly.