Profess: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used when someone declares something openly and without shame, particularly regarding beliefs or feelings. It can sometimes imply insincerity if used in a context where the declaration could be disbelieved.

• She professed her love for him openly.
• He professes to be an expert in the field, but his knowledge is lacking.

Used for making an official or formal statement, often in front of others. It is a strong way to express something openly.

• The president declared a state of emergency.
• He declared his intention to marry her.

Used to state something confidently and forcefully, often in a context where there may be disagreement or doubt. It carries a sense of strong conviction.

• He asserted his innocence despite the evidence against him.
• She asserted her authority in the meeting.

Used when someone makes a very open and often formal declaration of something, typically something personal like beliefs or intentions.

• She avowed her devotion to human rights.
• He avowed his intention to run for office.

Used when someone states that something is true, often without providing proof, and can be met with skepticism.

• He claimed he had seen a UFO.
• She claimed the money was hers.

Used when someone continues to assert something despite opposition or difficulty. It often implies persistence over time.

• She maintained her innocence throughout the trial.
• He maintained that the Earth is flat.

This word is commonly used when someone declares or states something openly and earnestly, especially beliefs, opinions, or feelings.

• She professed her love for him in front of everyone.
• He professes to be an expert in the field, but his knowledge is limited.

This word describes someone who pretends to have virtues, moral or religious beliefs, principles, etc., that they do not actually possess, particularly in a way that is intended to deceive others. It has a strong negative connotation.

• She called him a hypocrite for criticizing others for something he does himself.
• The politician was revealed to be a hypocrite, preaching about climate change while flying in private jets.

Typically used to describe someone who claims or aspires to a position or title to which they are not entitled, often in historical or grand contexts.

• He was seen as just another pretender to the throne.
• She dismissed him as a mere pretender to her affections.

Often used in a straightforward context to describe someone who pretends to be something they are not, usually in a dishonest way, with a negative connotation.

• The fortune teller turned out to be a complete faker.
• Don't trust him; he's just a faker.

Used informally to describe someone or something that is not genuine, often with a negative connotation.

• Everybody knew her enthusiasm was totally phony.
• The salesman's charm felt phony and insincere.

Suitable for describing someone who assumes a false identity or title to deceive others, often used in more serious or formal situations.

• The impostor was arrested for pretending to be a police officer.
• He was exposed as an impostor after years of pretending to be a doctor.