Make-believe: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to something that is not real but is done or believed for fun, often in the context of play.

• The children are playing a game of make-believe, pretending to be pirates.

Often used in the context of children playing or acting out scenarios that are not real. It can also have a slight negative connotation when someone is faking or being insincere.

• The kids pretend they are astronauts exploring the moon.
• He pretended to be interested in the conversation, but he was actually bored.

Used to describe ideas or stories that are imaginary and often have magical elements. Commonly used in literature and movies.

• He loves reading fantasy novels filled with dragons and wizards.

Refers to the ability to create ideas or pictures in one's mind. Often highlighted in contexts where creativity and thinking outside the box are important.

• Her imagination helps her create unique art pieces.

Used when referring to play or activities where someone is pretending something is real, often in the context of children's games or fantasy scenarios.

• The children were playing a make-believe game where they were pirates searching for treasure.
• In the world of make-believe, dragons and fairies come to life.

Typically used when someone is acting as if something is true when it is not, often for the sake of play, deception, or rehearsal.

• They pretended to be superheroes to save the day.
• Don't pretend you don't know what's going on.

Refers to something that exists only in someone's mind and not in reality, often used in contexts such as childhood fantasies or abstract concepts.

• She had an imaginary friend when she was little.
• The monster under the bed is just imaginary; there's nothing to be afraid of.

Applied when talking about stories, characters, or worlds created by authors, typically in books, movies, or TV shows. It indicates something that is not real but is crafted for entertainment, education, or artistic expression.

• Sherlock Holmes is a fictional character created by Arthur Conan Doyle.
• The city in the movie is entirely fictional and doesn't exist in real life.