Affectation: meaning, definitions and examples
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affectation
[ˌæfɛkˈteɪʃən ]
Definition
artificial behavior
Affectation is the act of behaving in an unnatural or insincere way, especially in order to impress others. It often involves pretending to possess qualities or characteristics that one does not actually have.
Synonyms
artifice, pretense, pretentiousness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| affectation |
Used when someone puts on false behavior, speech, or manners to impress others.
|
| pretense |
Refers to an attempt to make something that is not the case appear true, often implying insincerity or a deliberate deceit.
|
| artifice |
Implies the use of clever tricks or devices to deceive others. Often used in a context of cunning and skillful deceit.
|
| pretentiousness |
Describes behavior or attitudes that try to appear more important or significant than they really are. Often has a negative connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- She spoke with such affectation that everyone could tell she was not being genuine.
- His affectation of wealth was quickly exposed when his true financial situation came to light.
- The politician's affectation of concern for the environment was seen as a ploy to gain votes.
- Her affectation of sophistication only served to alienate those around her.
- His affectation of intelligence was transparent to those who knew him well.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'affectatio', meaning 'a striving for' or 'an effort to affect' something.
- It first appeared in English in the late 16th century, when people began using it to describe artificial behaviors.
- The root word 'affectare' means 'to take to oneself', reflecting how people adopt qualities to create a desired impression.
Psychology
- People often use affectation as a defense mechanism to hide insecurities or perceived shortcomings.
- Studies in social psychology indicate that individuals may adopt affectations in social situations to seem more appealing or likable.
- This can lead to an identity crisis if individuals lose touch with their true selves while acting.
Literature
- In literature, writers often explore characters who display affectation, representing the conflicts between self-identity and societal expectations.
- Famous works, like Oscar Wilde's 'The Importance of Being Earnest', satirize affectations to critique Victorian society.
- Authors use affectation to create tension and humor, as characters struggle between authenticity and pretense.
Pop Culture
- Many reality TV shows highlight affectation, as contestants often alter their personalities to gain popularity or acceptance.
- Social media influencers frequently showcase affectations, curating a perfect image that may not reflect their true lives.
- Songs and films often depict protagonists battling their own affectations, leading to character growth and authenticity.
Sociology
- Different cultures define and exhibit affectations uniquely, influenced by social norms and expectations.
- Affectation can serve as a form of social signaling, where individuals demonstrate allegiance to specific groups or classes.
- Understanding the role of affectation can help sociologists analyze social structures and hierarchy within communities.
Translations
Translations of the word "affectation" in other languages:
🇵🇹 afetação
🇮🇳 प्रभाव
🇩🇪 Affektation
🇮🇩 afektasi
🇺🇦 афектація
🇵🇱 afektacja
🇯🇵 気取り (kidori)
🇫🇷 affectation
🇪🇸 afectación
🇹🇷 yapmacık tavır
🇰🇷 가식 (gasik)
🇸🇦 تظاهر
🇨🇿 afektovanost
🇸🇰 afektovanosť
🇨🇳 做作 (zuòzuò)
🇸🇮 afektacija
🇮🇸 tilgerðar
🇰🇿 әсер етушілік
🇬🇪 აფექტაცია
🇦🇿 affektasiya
🇲🇽 afectación