
Pretence
Deceptive Intention
Pretence often implies a purposeful deception.
He made a pretence of forgetting her birthday to surprise her with a party.
Not Always Negative
While often associated with deceit, pretence can be used humorously or benignly.
They kept up the pretence of Santa Claus for the children's enjoyment.
Hollow Emotions
Pretence involves displaying emotions or reactions that are not genuinely felt.
Under pretence of sorrow, he actually felt relieved.