Imposture: meaning, definitions and examples

Best used to describe the act of pretending to be someone else, often for deceptive purposes. It's slightly more formal and less common in everyday language.

• The journalist exposed the imposture of the man claiming to be a famous author.
• She maintained her imposture for years, fooling everyone around her.

Generally refers to the act or practice of deceiving. It can be used in both formal and informal settings, but carries a slightly milder connotation than 'fraud'.

• The magician's tricks were nothing more than clever deception.
• He couldn't believe the level of deception involved in the scheme.

Used to describe serious deception, especially involving financial or legal matters. This word has a strongly negative connotation and is often used in legal contexts.

• She was arrested for committing tax fraud.
• The company's fraud was uncovered during the audit.

Refers to the act of misleading someone by hiding or distorting the truth. It is often used in more formal or serious contexts.

• The politician was known for his deceit and manipulation.
• Her deceit hurt our trust and ruined our friendship.

Describes a person who pretends to be someone else, usually to deceive others for personal gain. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.

• The impostor was eventually unmasked during the conference.
• He fooled everyone by acting as an impostor in the royal court.

Refers to the act of deceiving or tricking someone by pretending to be another person; usually has a negative connotation.

• His imposture was uncovered when they realized he was using false credentials.
• The imposture involved elaborate lies and fake documents.

Refers to a means of altering one’s appearance to conceal their identity; can be used in both benign and deceptive contexts.

• She wore a disguise to avoid being recognized in public.
• The thief escaped capture by quickly donning a clever disguise.

Indicates a party or event where people wear masks and costumes; also used metaphorically to describe an act of pretending to be something one is not.

• The masquerade ball was filled with guests in elaborate costumes.
• His tough demeanor was just a masquerade to hide his insecurities.

The act of mimicking or copying someone else, often for entertainment or deceit; has a negative connotation when used for deceptive purposes.

• His impersonation of the celebrity at the party had everyone laughing.
• The scam involved the impersonation of bank officials to steal money from customers.

Often used to describe a pretense or an act meant to deceive others, but usually in a less serious or dramatic context compared to 'imposture'.

• Their marriage was nothing more than a charade for the sake of appearances.
• The meeting was a mere charade to make it seem like they were doing something important.