Affectation, or pretension, refers to the act of adopting a manner or style that is not genuine, often to impress others. This behavior can manifest in speech, dress, or attitudes, where individuals may exaggerate their knowledge, sophistication, or social status. The goal is typically to create a favorable impression, even if it does not reflect their true self. People who exhibit affectation may use complex vocabulary or adopt a specific social class style to appear more cultured or refined. This can lead to perceptions of insincerity, as others may recognize the disconnect between the person's true identity and their affected behavior.