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How to Say "pretense" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “pretense” is “apariencia” — use 'apariencia' when referring to the general outward look or impression of something, often implying it might not be the full reality.

English → Spanish

apariencia

ah-pah-rye-EN-see-ahapaˈɾjenθja

nounB1general
Use 'apariencia' when referring to the general outward look or impression of something, often implying it might not be the full reality.
A vibrant red apple that has a small section peeled away, revealing a dull, gray color underneath, symbolizing an outward show that hides a different reality.

Examples

Solo mantenían la apariencia de un matrimonio feliz.

They only maintained the appearance of a happy marriage.

No te fíes de las apariencias; la verdad es más compleja.

Don't trust appearances; the truth is more complex.

Todo fue una mera apariencia para engañar al público.

It was all just a mere pretense to deceive the public.

Plural Use

When used in the sense of 'pretense' or 'outward show,' it often appears in the plural: 'las apariencias.' This emphasizes the general nature of things not being what they seem.

simulación

nounB2general
Use 'simulación' when the pretense involves actively pretending or faking a feeling or situation that is not real.

Examples

Su alegría era una simple simulación.

His joy was a mere pretense.

ficción

nounB2general
Choose 'ficción' when the pretense is something invented or fabricated to deceive others about the true state of affairs.

Examples

Mantenían la ficción de que el negocio era exitoso.

They maintained the pretense that the business was successful.

máscara

nounB2general
Use 'máscara' when the pretense is a facade or a covering that hides one's true feelings or intentions.

Examples

Tras el despido, su máscara de felicidad se cayó.

After the firing, his facade of happiness dropped.

simulacro

see-moo-LAH-krohsimuˈlakɾo

nounC1formal
Employ 'simulacro' for a more formal or critical context, referring to an outward show that is a poor imitation or mockery of the real thing.
A small wooden toy house painted to look like a real stone cottage sitting on a table.

Examples

Ese juicio fue un simulacro de justicia.

That trial was a mockery of justice.

Su amistad no era más que un simulacro.

Their friendship was nothing more than a sham.

Abstract Use

In this context, the word describes a quality of being 'fake' rather than a physical event like a fire drill.

Apariencia vs. Simulación

Learners often confuse 'apariencia' and 'simulación'. Remember that 'apariencia' is a more general outward look, while 'simulación' specifically implies actively faking or pretending something is true when it's not.

Related Translations

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