The Meaning of “Pretend” in English
In English, “pretend” is a verb that means to behave as if something is true when it is not. People often pretend while playing games, acting, or imagining scenarios. For example, children might pretend they are pirates or superheroes, and adults might pretend not to notice a surprise party. The core idea is to simulate or make believe, without intending to deceive maliciously.
How “Pretend” is Used in Portuguese
When translating “pretend” into Portuguese, learners must be careful because the direct translation can be misleading. The English word “pretend” is most accurately translated as “fingir.” For example, “I pretend to be asleep” becomes “Eu finjo estar dormindo.” The verb “fingir” is used in Portuguese in the same contexts as “pretend” in English—when someone is acting or simulating something that is not true.
False Friends: “Pretender” in Portuguese
A common mistake for English speakers is to assume that the Portuguese verb “pretender” means “to pretend.” In reality, “pretender” in Portuguese means “to intend” or “to plan.” This is a classic example of a “false friend,” where words look similar in two languages but have different meanings. For instance, “Eu pretendo viajar” means “I intend to travel,” not “I pretend to travel.”
Examples: “Pretend” vs. “Pretender”
To make these differences clearer, let’s look at some example sentences:
- English: The child pretends to be a doctor.
Portuguese: A criança finge ser médica. - English: I intend to study Portuguese.
Portuguese: Eu pretendo estudar português. - Incorrect: Eu pretendo ser médico. (This means “I intend to be a doctor,” not “I pretend to be a doctor.”)
Correct: Eu finjo ser médico. (This means “I pretend to be a doctor.”)
How to Remember the Difference
A practical tip for learners using Talkpal or other language learning platforms is to make flashcards or memory aids. Remember that “fingir” is for acting or make-believe, while “pretender” is for expressing intention or plans. Practicing sentences with both verbs in context will help reinforce the correct usage.
Conclusion: Mastering Portuguese Vocabulary
Understanding the difference between “pretend” in English and its Portuguese equivalents is essential for clear communication. Don’t let false friends trip you up! When you want to talk about acting or make-believe in Portuguese, use “fingir.” If you’re sharing your plans or intentions, use “pretender.” For more tips on mastering tricky vocabulary and avoiding common language learning mistakes, check out Talkpal’s blog and AI-powered language tools. Happy learning!
