Pretentious

usgb/prɪˈtenʃəs/
adjective

Trying to appear or sound more important or clever than you are, especially in matters of art and literature.

His speech sounded pretentious and insincere.
Visual representation of "pretentious" - Trying to appear or sound more important or clever than you are, especially in matters of art and literature

Often appears as...

  • pretentious individual
  • pretentious speech

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "pretentious"
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Overstated Knowledge

Pretentious implies someone exaggerates their understanding or importance, often in specialized areas.

Illustration for Overstated Knowledge
His pretentious talk on quantum physics irritated all the actual scientists in the room.
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Cultural Awareness

In art and literature discussions, being called pretentious suggests a lack of authenticity or genuine understanding.

Illustration for Cultural Awareness
The critic's pretentious analysis was completely missing the artist's true message.
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Negative Tone

The term 'pretentious' often carries a negative judgment, implying disapproval of someone's attitude.

Illustration for Negative Tone
People avoided him at parties due to his pretentious demeanor.
Visual representation of the word "Pretentious"

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