play-act
Definition
- Verb:
- To pretend or act insincerely: "play-act" means to behave in a false or exaggerated manner, often to deceive or create an impression that is not genuine.
- To perform in a theatrical role: "play-act" can also refer to acting in a dramatic production, though this usage is less common.
Usage Examples
- (He pretends or acts insincerely to evade blame.)
- (They perform pretend roles for fun.)
- (Her anger was feigned.)
Advanced Usage
"to play-act a role": to assume a false identity or attitude.
- In the meeting, he play-acted the part of a confident leader, though he was nervous inside. (He pretended to be confident.)
"play-acting as": to behave in a way that mimics someone or something.
- The politician was play-acting as a friend of the working class. (He was pretending to be their ally.)
Variants and Related Words
Play-acting (n): the act of pretending or insincere behaviour.
- Her play-acting was obvious to everyone in the room. (Her pretence was easy to see.)
Play-actor (n): a person who pretends or acts insincerely; also a theatrical actor.
- He is a skilled play-actor, but his true feelings are hard to guess. (He is good at feigning emotions.)
Synonyms
- Pretend: to act as if something is true when it is not.
- Feign: to give a false appearance of.
- Simulate: to imitate or reproduce the appearance of something.
Related Idioms
Put on an act: to behave in a way that is not genuine.
- She put on an act of being surprised, but she already knew the news. (She pretended to be surprised.)
Play a part: to act a role, especially in a deceptive manner.
- He played a part in the scheme, pretending to be a customer. (He acted deceptively.)