Pretentious

Adjective

Definition: Attempting to impress by affecting greater importance or merit than is actually possessed.

Synonyms: Ostentatious, Showy, Pompous, Grandiose

Antonyms: Modest, Unassuming, Genuine, Humble

Examples:

She always wears expensive designer clothes to appear pretentious.
His pretentious manner of speaking made everyone roll their eyes.

Mnemonics:

Think of someone pretending to be something they are not, like an actor in a play.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "pretentious" comes from the Latin word "praetendere," meaning "to hold forth" or "to pretend."

Historical Usage:

The word first appeared in English in the late 18th century, with its current meaning of acting or speaking as if more important or sophisticated than one actually is.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Pretentious art"

Explanation:

This refers to art that is perceived as trying too hard to be important or profound, often lacking genuine substance.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Pretentiousness is the same as confidence or ambition.

Explanation:

While confidence and ambition are positive qualities, pretentiousness refers to someone falsely presenting themselves as more important or talented than they actually are. It is more about deception or insincerity.