Affectation: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone puts on false behavior, speech, or manners to impress others.

• His British accent is pure affectation; he's never even been to England.
• Her laugh felt like an affectation, as if she was trying too hard to fit in.

Refers to an attempt to make something that is not the case appear true, often implying insincerity or a deliberate deceit.

• He entered the room under the pretense of checking on everyone’s well-being.
• Her pretense of concern didn’t fool anyone; they knew she only cared about herself.

Implies the use of clever tricks or devices to deceive others. Often used in a context of cunning and skillful deceit.

• The magician's act was full of artifice, leaving the audience in awe.
• She relied on artifice to win the chess match, using her opponent's weaknesses against him.

Describes behavior or attitudes that try to appear more important or significant than they really are. Often has a negative connotation.

• The artist's pretentiousness was evident in the way he dismissed any criticism of his work.
• Her pretentiousness made it hard for others to relate to her, as she always acted like she was above them.