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How to Say "pretense" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “pretense” is “apariencia” — use this word when the 'pretense' refers to maintaining a false outward look or image, especially in social or relational contexts..

English → Spanish

apariencia

ah-pah-rye-EN-see-ah/apaˈɾjenθja/

nounB1general
Use this word when the 'pretense' refers to maintaining a false outward look or image, especially in social or relational contexts.
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.

máscara

nounB2general
Use this word when the 'pretense' is a facade or a misleading show used to hide one's true emotions or situation.

Examples

Tras el despido, su máscara de felicidad se cayó.

After the firing, his facade of happiness dropped.

Appearance vs. Facade

Learners often confuse 'apariencia' and 'máscara' by using 'apariencia' for any type of hiding. Remember, 'apariencia' is about the *look* you present, while 'máscara' is specifically a disguise for your *feelings* or *reality*.

Related Translations

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