Pretentious definition Meaning and Definition
Pretentious definition
Pronunciation
/ˌprɛtɛnʃəs ˈdɛfɪnɪʃən/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
A pretentious definition is a word or phrase that seems overly complex or affected, often used to impress or intimidate others, rather than convey useful or accurate information.
Examples
1. “He used the word ‘perspicacious’ in a conversation, but it just sounded pretentious.”
2. “Using overly complex vocabulary in a business proposal came across as pretentious and unprofessional.”
Synonyms
1. Pseudo-intellectual
2. Ostentatious
Antonyms
1. Simple
2. Direct
Etymology
The word ‘pretentious’ has its roots in the Old French word ‘pretendre’, meaning ‘to pretend’ or ‘to pretend to be something one is not’. Over time, the word evolved to convey a sense of artificial or affected behavior, often used to describe someone who seeks to appear more sophisticated or intelligent than they actually are.
Usage Notes
The word ‘pretentious’ is often used to describe language or behavior that is seen as overly complex or affected. It can be used in a variety of contexts, including academic writing, business communication, and everyday conversation.
When using the word ‘pretentious’, it’s essential to consider the context and audience to avoid misusing the word in a way that is taken as either overcritical or undercritical.
Cultural References
The concept of pretentiousness is frequently depicted in popular culture. In the TV show “Seinfeld”, one of the main characters, Elaine Benes, often lambasts her acquaintances for using overly complicated language and trying to appear more intelligent than they actually are.
Similarly, the 2013 film “All is Lost” explicitly explores the dangers of overconfidence (or pretentiousness) in the face of adversity.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “Talk the talk, but not walk the walk” – This phrase suggests that someone is pretending to be something they are not.
2. “All hat and no cattle” – This phrase implies that someone is all talk and no action, often used to describe someone who is pretentious or boastful.
Collocations
1. “Pretentious language”
2. “Pretentious behavior”
3. “Pretentious attitude”
Frequency of Use
The word ‘pretentious’ is commonly used in modern language, particularly in contexts where people are trying to convey a sense of sophistication or intelligence.
However, it’s worth noting that the word can be overused, and its meaning can become diluted if used too frequently.
Common Misspellings
1. Pretensious
2. Pretensiousness
3. Pretentiousness