Posing: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is intentionally arranging their body for a photo or to create a specific impression; can have a neutral or slightly negative connotation if suggesting artificiality.

• She was posing for a portrait in a historical costume.
• He spent the afternoon posing for fashion shoots.

Refers to the way someone holds and positions their body, often in terms of health, confidence, or physical alignment. Common in discussions about ergonomics, fitness, and poise.

• Good posture is important for avoiding back pain.
• Her confident posture made a strong impression during the interview.

Refers to the action of getting into or maintaining an upright position. Often used in everyday situations, as well as in instructions or when discussing someone's stance.

• Please stand when the national anthem is played.
• He had to stand in line for over an hour.

Describes the action of placing oneself in a seated position. Frequently used in everyday conversation and instructions.

• Please sit down and make yourself comfortable.
• The teacher asked the children to sit in a circle.

Used when someone is imitating a particular person or situation, often to deceive others. It can be neutral or have a slight negative connotation.

• He was posing as a doctor to gain access to the restricted area.
• They caught him posing as a celebrity at the party.

Means to act in a particular way to make others believe something that is not true. It is often used in everyday situations and can be neutral or have a negative connotation depending on the context.

• The children like to pretend they are superheroes.
• He pretended to be interested in the conversation.

Refers to changing one's appearance or behavior to hide one's identity. Often used in the context of concealment.

• The spy wore a disguise to blend in with the crowd.
• She used a wig and glasses as part of her disguise.

Implies an elaborate disguise or deception, usually associated with events or situations involving a false show of identity. It often has a negative connotation.

• The company's charitable efforts were just a masquerade to mask its unethical practices.
• The party was a masquerade ball, with everyone in elaborate costumes.