Learning French: what does faire semblant mean and when should it be used?

The French faire semblant is similar to the English ‘to kid on’. 

It can be used in a range of contexts and situations, from lighthearted jokes, to theatrical performances, or even psychological manipulation. 

We look at one way in which the French describe the act of pretending and explain how to slip it into everyday conversations. 

What does faire semblant mean?

It literally means ‘to make semblance’, but more accurate translations would be: ‘to seem’, ‘to appear’, or ‘to pretend’.

Faire semblant is essentially used to describe someone who makes out to be doing something, but it is not actually true. 

It can also imply that someone is putting on an act or being fake. 

Read also: No scar: surgeon in France accused of just pretending to operate

A related term is un faux-semblant, which means: a false pretence. 

The most common way that French people use this is by saying: Pas de faux-semblants entre nous. This encourages transparency and frankness between two (or more) people, as opposed to lies and illusions.

When do you say faire semblant?

Say this when someone is pretending or putting on an act:

• Mon frère faisait toujours semblant d'être allergique aux légumes quand il était petit. - My brother would always kid-on that he was allergic to vegetables when he was young. 

• La femme faisait semblant de pleurer pour montrer à l'enfant qu'il avait été méchant. - The woman was pretending to cry to show the child that he had been mean.

• J'ai été agressé dans la rue, mais les passants ont fait semblant de ne rien voir. - I was mugged in the street but passers-by pretended not to notice.

It can also suggest that someone is hiding their true intentions:

• Elle fait semblant d'être leur amie, mais en réalité ce n’est qu'une manipulatrice. - She acts as if she is their friend but in reality she is just a manipulator.

To whom do you say faire semblant?

It is neutral language that can be used in any situation - formal or informal.

Note that prétendre is a false friend and does not mean the same as the English verb: to pretend. In French it refers to the idea of making a claim, being entitled to something, or intending to do something. 

If you would like us to explain a particular word or expression, or if you have any other Learning French suggestions, let us know at: feedback@connexionfrance.com