Feign Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
ðŸŽ
feign
[feɪn ]
Definitions
pretend
To feign means to pretend to have a particular feeling, problem, or injury. It is often done in order to deceive or trick others.
Synonyms
counterfeit, fabricate, fake, simulate.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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feign |
Feign is used when someone is pretending to feel or do something, usually to deceive others.
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simulate |
Simulate is used when imitating or replicating certain conditions or actions, often for training or experiment purposes.
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fake |
Fake is a general term that can refer to anything that is not real, and it often carries a negative connotation.
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counterfeit |
Counterfeit is typically used to describe fake money, documents, or goods that are made to deceive people into thinking they are real.
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fabricate |
Fabricate is often used when someone creates a false story, information, or evidence, often with the intention to deceive.
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Examples of usage
- She feigned illness in order to skip school.
- He feigned surprise when he saw the birthday party decorations.
invent
To feign can also mean to invent a story or excuse, typically in order to deceive someone.
Synonyms
concoct, falsify, invent, make-up.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
feign |
Best used when pretending to feel or be affected by something, especially to deceive others.
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concoct |
Usually refers to creating something by combining various elements, often elaborately, and can carry a deceitful connotation.
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falsify |
Mostly involves deliberately changing information to mislead someone, often with malicious intent. It has a negative connotation.
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invent |
Can be used when creating a new device, method, or story. It can be neutral or positive, depending on the context.
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make-up |
Often used when creating a story or excuse, and can imply that the information is not true or authentic.
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Examples of usage
- She feigned a family emergency to get out of the meeting.
- He feigned forgetfulness when asked about the missing documents.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'feign'
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #24,830, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.
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