crossword clue pretence – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue 'pretence' in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you.
Solutions for "crossword clue pretence" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ACT: A deed or action, often used to describe putting on a show or feigning something.
4 Letters
SHAM: Something that is not what it purports to be; a hoax or a pretense.
5 Letters
GUISE: An external form or appearance, especially when used to conceal the true nature of something.
6 Letters
FAÇADE: An outward appearance that is maintained to conceal a less pleasant or creditable reality.
7 Letters
CHARADE: An absurd pretense intended to create a pleasant or respectable appearance.
POSTURE: A particular way of behaving or presenting oneself, often for effect or to influence others.
8 Letters
ARTIFICE: Clever or cunning devices or expedients, especially those used to trick or deceive others.
9 Letters
DECEPTION: The action of deceiving someone; an act or statement which misleads, conceals the truth, or promotes a belief, concept, or idea that is not true.
10 Letters
MASQUERADE: A false show or pretense; an action or appearance that is merely a disguise or illusion.
More About "crossword clue pretence"
The word 'pretence' (or 'pretense' in American English) refers to an attempt to make something that is not the case appear true. It's a common concept in daily life, often involving feigning an emotion, condition, or character to deceive or impress others. In crosswords, clues related to 'pretence' often require synonyms for deception, masquerade, or a false front.
Understanding the nuances of 'pretence' can greatly aid in crossword solving. Is the clue asking for a direct synonym, an action associated with pretense, or a specific type of false appearance? Pay close attention to accompanying words in the clue, such as 'false show', 'feigned', 'act', or 'disguise', as these can narrow down the potential answers significantly. For instance, 'false front' might lead to 'FAÇADE' or 'GUISE', while 'feigned illness' could simply be 'ACT'.
Crossword setters love words like 'pretence' because they have a rich array of synonyms across various lengths and shades of meaning. This allows for diverse clues that test a solver's vocabulary depth. Always consider both the British and American spellings if the puzzle's origin isn't specified, as this can sometimes affect available letter counts for solutions like 'pretence' vs. 'pretense'.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: Always read the full clue carefully. Words surrounding 'pretence' can hint at the specific synonym required (e.g., 'false show of courage' vs. 'child's pretense').
- Check Letter Count: Once you have a potential answer, confirm its letter count matches the grid. For 'pretence', solutions range from short (ACT) to long (MASQUERADE).
- Look for Wordplay: Crossword clues often use wordplay. Could 'pretence' be part of an anagram, a pun, or a hidden word? Consider how the setter might be trying to mislead you with the surface meaning.
- Consider UK vs. US English: Some words have different spellings (like 'pretence' vs. 'pretense'). If unsure, try both spellings to see if one fits the grid and other crossing letters.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 'pretence' and 'pretense'?
'Pretence' is the common British English spelling, while 'pretense' is the American English spelling. Both words have the same meaning, referring to an attempt to make something that is not the case appear true.
How can I tell if a crossword clue implies a long or short answer for 'pretence'?
Clue length and complexity can sometimes hint at answer length, but it's not a rule. Shorter, more direct clues like 'Feigned action' might lead to 'ACT', while more descriptive clues like 'Elaborate false show' could point to longer answers like 'MASQUERADE'. Always use the grid's letter count as your primary guide.
Are there other common words for 'pretence' in crosswords?
Absolutely! Besides those listed, common synonyms include BLUFF, SHADOW, GIMMICK, POSE, CHARM, and even sometimes DECORUM, depending on the specific nuance the setter is aiming for. The key is to think broadly about words related to disguise, illusion, or false appearance.