sham
word
Definition
A sham is something that pretends to be real but is actually false or fake. It can also refer to a person pretending to be someone they are not.
Usage & Nuances
'Sham' is mainly formal or literary; used for scams, false displays, or people pretending to be what they are not. Common collocations: 'total sham', 'a complete sham', 'the trial was a sham'. As an adjective, 'sham' describes something fake. Less commonly used as a verb (to sham = to pretend).
Example Sentences
His qualifications were a complete sham.
natural
The contest was a sham because the winner was already chosen.
basic
Everyone knew the apology was just a sham.
basic
He was exposed as a sham and lost his job.
basic
Their friendship was a sham to begin with.
natural
What a sham—they promised change, but nothing happened.
natural