How to Pronounce Pretense

To pronounce "pretense", say PRET-ens-e — 3 syllables, IPA /ˈpɹiːtɛns/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

pretense

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Accent

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3

Syllables

8

Letters

/ˈpɹiːtɛns/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “pretense”

"pretense" has 3 syllables: pret-ens-e. It rhymes with intense and sense, if that helps it stick.

What does pretense mean?

noun

  1. A false or hypocritical profession

    “under pretense of friendliness”

  2. Intention or purpose not real but professed.

    “with only a pretense of accuracy”

Synonyms

affectationdeceptionescapefalse pretensefictionimitationpretextsham

Words that rhyme with pretense

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

intensesensedenserecompenseimmensetensecommencefencethenceincensedispenseoffense

Related words

feigningpretencemake-believepretendingdissemblingpretensionsimulationpretext

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "pretense"?▾

"Pretense" has 3 syllables: pret · ens · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "pretense"?▾

The IPA transcription of "pretense" is /ˈpɹiːtɛns/.

What does "pretense" mean?▾

Pretense: A false or hypocritical profession

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