Basic Details
Word: Pretentious
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Trying to show off importance or superiority, often in a way that is not genuine.
Synonyms: Ostentatious, arrogant, showy
Antonyms: Genuine, modest, simple
Idioms and Phrases
- Put on airs: To act as if one is better or more important than others. Example: "Ever since he got his new job, hes been putting on airs and looking down on his old friends."
- All show and no substance: When someone appears impressive but lacks real value or quality. Example: "The restaurant was all show and no substance; the food was quite ordinary despite the fancy decorations."
Usage Examples
Example 1: She wore a pretentious outfit at the party, trying to impress everyone with her fashion sense.
Example 2: His pretentious behaviour made it hard for others to connect with him, as he always wanted to seem superior.
Example 3: The film was criticized for its pretentious storyline that tried too hard to appear intellectual.
Fun Fact
The word "pretentious" originates from the Latin "praetendere," which means "to pretend" or "to stretch forth." It became popular in the 17th century to describe those who claimed a status or importance they did not genuinely possess.
Famous Quote
"Much ado about nothing." William Shakespeare, highlighting how pretentious actions often lead to unnecessary drama and show.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "pretentious" mean?
a) Sincere and honest
b) Showing off importance or superiority
c) Simple and trivial
d) Friendly and kind
Answer: b) Showing off importance or superiority
2. Which of these is a synonym of "pretentious"?
a) Friendly
b) Ostentatious
c) Humble
d) Unimportant
Answer: b) Ostentatious
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "pretentious"?
a) Showy
b) Genuine
c) Arrogant
d) Snobbish
Answer: b) Genuine
4. Which sentence uses "pretentious" correctly?
a) He was pretentious about his hobbies, often showing off his collections.
b) She felt pretentious after helping her friend.
c) The puppy was pretentious when it played.
d) They were pretentious to the quiet restaurant.
Answer: a) He was pretentious about his hobbies, often showing off his collections.
5. Which idiom means the same as "pretentious"?
a) All show and no substance
b) As clear as mud
c) The early bird catches the worm
d) Keep your chin up
Answer: a) All show and no substance
