pretence crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "pretence crossword clue", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, organized by their letter count, along with brief explanations to help you understand the context.
Solutions for "pretence crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ACT: A short display or performance, often implying a feigned or insincere behavior.
4 Letters
SHAM: A thing that is not what it is purported to be; a hoax or a pretense.
5 Letters
GUISE: An external form, appearance, or manner of presentation, typically concealing the true nature of something.
6 Letters
FACADE: An outward appearance that is maintained to conceal a less pleasant or creditable reality.
7 Letters
POSTURE: An attitude or position, especially one adopted for effect; a pretense.
10 Letters
MASQUERADE: A false show or pretense, often involving disguise or an elaborate deception.
More About "pretence crossword clue"
'Pretence' is a rich word for crossword constructors, offering a variety of synonyms due to its nuanced meaning. It refers to an attempt to make something that is not the case appear true, often for deceptive purposes or simply to put on a show. From a simple 'act' to a more elaborate 'masquerade', the word can imply anything from mild affectation to serious deception.
When you encounter 'pretence' in a crossword, think about the level of deception or artificiality implied. Is it a mere superficial display, or a calculated falsehood? The context of the puzzle, and any letters you might already have filled in, will be crucial in narrowing down the exact answer needed from the many possibilities. Common related terms include 'show', 'affectation', 'guile', and 'deception'.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters: Always double-check the number of boxes available in the grid. This is the single most important factor in determining the correct answer among synonyms like those for 'pretence'.
- Consider Nuance: While many words can mean 'pretence', think about the subtle differences. 'Sham' might imply fraud, while 'guise' suggests a disguised appearance. The nuance can sometimes point you to the correct answer if you have multiple options of the same length.
- Check Crossings: Utilize the letters from intersecting words. Even one correct letter can dramatically narrow down the possibilities for a challenging clue like 'pretence'.
- Think of Homonyms/Homophones: Although less common for a direct synonym clue like 'pretence', sometimes the puzzle might play on words that sound alike but have different meanings. Always keep an open mind to linguistic tricks.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'pretence' mean in the context of crosswords?
In crosswords, 'pretence' typically refers to an act of pretending or feigning, an artificial or deceptive display, or a false front. Common synonyms or related concepts like 'act,' 'sham,' 'guise,' or 'facade' are frequently used as answers.
How can I distinguish between similar answers for 'pretence'?
The key is the number of letters required for the answer. Crossword constructors often choose a specific synonym based on the available space. Additionally, consider any surrounding letters you might have filled in, which can often narrow down the possibilities based on letter patterns.
Are there different spellings of 'pretence' to consider?
Yes, 'pretence' (with 'c') is the common British English spelling, while 'pretense' (with 's') is the common American English spelling. Crosswords may sometimes use either, though British puzzles will typically stick to 'pretence' for the clue itself. Be aware that answers might sometimes be the US spelling if fitting.