Pretension refers to an attitude of superiority or self-importance, often characterized by an attempt to impress others by claiming greater knowledge, skills, or sophistication than one actually possesses. This behavior can manifest in various social situations, where individuals may adopt a false persona or use complex language to appear more cultured or educated. In many cases, pretension can lead to misunderstandings and social friction, as others may perceive the pretentious individual as insincere or arrogant. It is often criticized in contexts such as art, literature, and social interactions, where authenticity and genuine expression are valued over superficial displays of status.