pretending crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "pretending" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "pretending crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
ACTING: Engaging in a performance or role; taking on a persona.
FAKING: Creating a deceptive imitation or presenting something as genuine when it's not.
8 Letters
FEIGNING: Pretending to be affected by (a feeling, state, or injury); fabricating.
SHAMMING: Falsely presenting something as true; often used for feigning illness or disability.
10 Letters
SIMULATING: Imitating the behavior or characteristics of something, often to create an effect or a model.
More About "pretending crossword clue"
"Pretending" is a versatile concept in language and, consequently, in crosswords. Clues around this theme can refer to a wide range of actions, from innocent make-believe to deliberate deception. Crossword setters often use synonyms like 'acting', 'feigning', 'simulating', or 'faking' to prompt various answers depending on the nuance they intend and the available letter count.
When you encounter a "pretending" clue, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it a lighthearted clue, suggesting play or mimicry, or does it imply something more serious like a lie or an elaborate charade? The surrounding letters in the grid can also offer vital hints, narrowing down the possibilities from numerous synonyms to the single correct answer.
Understanding the different facets of "pretending"—whether it's for performance, deception, or just play—will significantly aid in cracking these types of clues quickly and accurately in any crossword puzzle, from daily quickies to more challenging cryptic puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Tone: Does "pretending" imply playful imitation, or is there a hint of deceit? The tone can guide you to words like 'mimicking' versus 'deceiving'.
- Consider Word Endings: Many "pretending" answers are gerunds ending in -ING, reflecting an ongoing action. Check if the required letter count fits this pattern.
- Use Cross-References: Always look at intersecting words. Even one confirmed letter can unlock a "pretending" answer that previously seemed impossible.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best strategy for "pretending" clues in crosswords?
Look for synonyms related to deception, role-playing, mimicry, or creating false appearances. Consider if the answer needs to be a noun (e.g., charade) or a verb (e.g., acting, feigning).
How do word lengths help with "pretending" clues?
Word lengths are crucial! If you have "pretending" and need a 6-letter word, you might immediately think of ACTING or FAKING. A longer word like SIMULATING or IMPERSONATING opens up different possibilities.
Are there common prefixes or suffixes for "pretending" words?
Often, these words end in -ING (gerund form) if the clue implies an action. Words like "disguise" or "masquerade" might be related, but "pretending" often points to a verb.