pretentious
/prɪˈtenʃəs/
CEFR level C1Topic SocietyWord #6623 in the learning path
自命不凡的；故作高深的
Definitions
adj. trying to seem more important or impressive than is justified
自命不凡的；故作高深的
Example
The café felt pretentious, with velvet chairs and tiny portions.
这家咖啡馆摆着天鹅绒椅子，食物分量却很小，让人觉得装腔作势。
Public art may alienate local residents if its presentation seems pretentious rather than welcoming and accessible.
如果公共艺术的呈现方式显得故作高深，而非亲切易懂，就可能疏远当地居民。
Collocations
- sound pretentious
- pretentious language
- a pretentious attitude
Word family
- pretension (n.)
- pretentiously (adv.)
- unpretentious (adj.)
Synonyms
- affected
- pompous
Antonyms
- unpretentious
- modest
Usage tip
贬义：刻意显得高雅或重要，不只是有自信。
FAQ
- What does pretentious mean?
- trying to seem more important or impressive than is justified
- How is pretentious pronounced?
- UK /prɪˈtenʃəs/, US /prɪˈtenʃəs/. Use the audio buttons above to listen.
