pretend

Used to emphasize that the action is only an act and not real.

To make a minimal effort to seem to be doing or feeling something, often out of politeness.

Emphasizes the simplicity of the act of pretending.

Similar to 'just pretend', often used in more formal contexts.

To act as if the situation is different from what it really is.

A common phrase indicating that an action is not serious or real.

Synonymous with 'just pretending', emphasizing the faked nature of the action.

A common suggestion to start a game of make-believe, especially among children.

A command or plea for someone to cease their pretense and be genuine.

To continue to feign or create a false appearance.

Indicates that pretending is futile or useless in a given situation.

A variant of 'there's no point in pretending', more common in British English.

To feign something to another person.

To make an effort to create a false appearance or belief.

To be unable to continue acting as if something is true when it is not.

Used to state that pretending in a certain situation would be a foolish act.

Used to state that pretending would be an act of dishonesty.

Used to state that pretending would be a pointless or useless action.