pretend crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the crossword clue "pretend", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you through your puzzle.
Solutions for "pretend crossword" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ACT: To behave as if something is true when it is not; perform a role, fitting the essence of pretending.
4 Letters
SHAM: A thing that is not what it purports to be; a hoax, often implying a false front or pretense.
5 Letters
FEIGN: To pretend to be affected by (a feeling, state, or injury), directly matching the definition of pretend.
8 Letters
SIMULATE: To imitate the appearance or character of something else; to create a likeness or model of, often implying a form of pretending.
11 Letters
IMPERSONATE: To pretend to be (another person) as entertainment or in order to deceive, a specific and strong form of pretending.
More About "pretend crossword"
"Pretend" is a versatile word in crosswords, often leading to a wide range of synonyms depending on the context. Clues can point to acting a role, faking an emotion, mimicking a behavior, or even creating a false appearance. Understanding these nuances is key to cracking the code.
From the playful "let's pretend" of childhood games to the more serious implications of feigning illness or simulating an environment, the concept of pretending spans various human activities. Crossword constructors love this breadth, as it allows for creative and challenging clue constructions that test your vocabulary and conceptual understanding.
When you encounter 'pretend' in a clue, think about the different ways something can be non-genuine or a performance. Is it a verb describing an action, a noun describing a falsehood, or perhaps an adjective describing a fake item? The exact part of speech and any surrounding words in the clue will often steer you towards the precise answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Part of Speech: Is "pretend" used as a verb (e.g., 'to feign'), a noun (e.g., 'a sham'), or an adjective (e.g., 'fake')? This is crucial for selecting the right answer.
- Consider Letter Count First: Before brainstorming, check the number of letters required. This instantly narrows down your options significantly and makes the task less daunting.
- Look for Contextual Nouns: Sometimes, the clue 'pretend' might lead to a noun that is a "pretender" or a "pretense." For example, a 'mimic' or an 'impersonator' are people who pretend.
- Use Intersecting Letters: If you have letters filled in from crossing words, use them as vital hints. They can quickly reveal the correct answer even if you're stuck on the main clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'pretend' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'pretend' often clues synonyms for faking, acting, feigning, or simulating. It points to words describing non-genuine actions, states, or identities. Always consider the nuance of the clue – is it a verb, noun, or adjective?
Are there common tricks related to 'pretend' clues?
Yes, 'pretend' might imply a noun (like a 'SHAM' or an 'ACT') or a verb (like 'FEIGN' or 'SIMULATE'). Pay close attention to the clue's part of speech and surrounding words for context. Sometimes, it can also lead to words about disguise, mimicry, or even theatrical performance.
How can I solve a crossword clue about pretending if I'm stuck?
Consider the number of letters needed first. Brainstorm synonyms for 'act', 'fake', 'imitate', 'disguise', or 'assume'. If you have intersecting letters from other answers, use them as vital hints. Thinking about different contexts for pretending (e.g., childhood games, deception, performance) can also unlock answers.