At the A1 level, you can think of 假装 (jiǎzhuāng) as a word for 'playing' or 'acting.' It is a verb you use when you want to say someone is not being real. For example, if a child is playing with a toy phone, they are 'pretending' to talk. In Chinese, you say '假装 (jiǎzhuāng).' You can use it in very simple ways: 假装 + another verb. For example, '假装睡觉' (jiǎzhuāng shuìjiào) means 'pretend to sleep.' This is a fun word to use when talking about games or simple actions. It helps you describe things that are 'fake' instead of 'real.' Remember, '假' (jiǎ) means 'not real' and '装' (zhuāng) is like 'putting on clothes.' So, you are putting on a 'fake' look. Even at this early stage, you can use it to talk about how you feel, like '假装开心' (pretend to be happy). It's a very useful word for basic daily life and playing.
At the A2 level, you should start using 假装 (jiǎzhuāng) to describe social situations and simple intentions. You already know it means 'to pretend,' but now you can use it to form longer sentences. For instance, you can say '他假装没看见我' (He pretended not to see me). This uses the pattern: Subject + 假装 + Negative Verb. This is very common when talking about friends or people you meet on the street. You can also use it with adjectives to describe states of being, like '假装很忙' (pretending to be very busy). This is a great way to talk about work or school life. Another important thing at A2 is learning that 假装 can be used with '是' (shì) to mean 'pretend to be someone.' For example, '他假装是我的哥哥' (He pretended to be my older brother). This word helps you explain why people are acting in a certain way, adding more detail to your stories.
At the B1 level, you can use 假装 (jiǎzhuāng) to discuss more complex social dynamics and emotions. You should be comfortable using it with clauses, such as '我假装我一点都不在乎这件事' (I pretend that I don't care about this matter at all). This shows a deeper level of communication where you are expressing internal thoughts versus external actions. You will also start to see 假装 in more formal contexts, like news reports or books, where it might describe someone's strategy or a deceptive move. You can compare it with synonyms like '装作' (zhuāngzuò) and notice that '装作' is often used in written narratives. At this level, you should also learn the common phrase '别装了' (bié zhuāng le), which is a colloquial way to say 'stop pretending' or 'stop acting.' This is very useful for natural conversations with friends. You are moving beyond simple 'acting' to understanding the nuances of social 'masks.'
At the B2 level, your use of 假装 (jiǎzhuāng) should reflect an understanding of its psychological and cultural implications. You can use it to analyze characters in literature or films, discussing how they 假装 to survive or achieve their goals. For example, you might discuss how a character '假装服从' (pretends to obey) while secretly planning a rebellion. You should also be able to distinguish 假装 from more specific terms like '伪装' (wěizhuāng - camouflage/disguise) or '冒充' (màochōng - to impersonate for fraud). At B2, you should be able to use 假装 in the context of 'face-saving' (丢脸/保住面子) culture. For instance, explaining how someone might '假装知道答案' (pretend to know the answer) to avoid embarrassment. Your sentences should be more sophisticated, using resultative complements like '假装得很像' (pretended very convincingly) or '假装成...的样子' (pretend to be in the state of...). This level is about precision and cultural context.
At the C1 level, 假装 (jiǎzhuāng) becomes a tool for nuanced social commentary and abstract discussion. You can use it to describe societal phenomena, such as '假装性努力' (pseudo-effort/pretending to be hardworking) or '假装性亲密' (pretend intimacy). You should be able to discuss the ethics of pretending in professional environments, such as '假装同意上司的意见' (feigning agreement with a boss's opinion). Your vocabulary should expand to include idioms related to pretense, like '虚张声势' (making a false show of strength) or '阳奉阴违' (feigning compliance while acting in opposition). At this level, you can use 假装 to explore themes of identity and authenticity in modern society. You might write an essay on how social media encourages people to 假装 a perfect life. Your command of the word should be effortless, allowing you to use it in complex grammatical structures and with a wide range of sophisticated vocabulary.
At the C2 level, your mastery of 假装 (jiǎzhuāng) is indistinguishable from that of a native speaker. You understand the subtle differences in tone and register between 假装, 装作, 伪装, and 矫饰 (jiǎoshì - affectation). You can use 假装 in philosophical discussions about the nature of truth and the 'social contract' of polite pretense. You are aware of how the word is used in classical allusions or modern political rhetoric to describe 'strategic ambiguity' or 'theatrical politics.' You can effortlessly switch between the colloquial '装' and the formal '假装' depending on the audience. Furthermore, you can identify and use 假装 in creative writing to build irony or dramatic tension. You understand that 假装 is not just a verb, but a concept that permeates human interaction, and you can articulate this with precision, using a rich array of supporting vocabulary and perfect grammatical accuracy. You can even critique the use of the word in different dialects or regional variations of Mandarin.

假装 en 30 segundos

  • 假装 (jiǎzhuāng) means to pretend or feign. It is a common verb used across all levels of Chinese to describe acting out a false state.
  • It combines '假' (fake) and '装' (dress up), implying putting on a 'fake outfit' or a false front to deceive or perform socially.
  • Grammatically, it is followed by verbs, adjectives, or clauses. Common patterns include '假装 + Verb' (pretend to do) and '假装成' (pretend to be).
  • It is used in contexts ranging from children's games to complex emotional management and social 'face-saving' strategies in Chinese culture.

The Chinese term 假装 (jiǎzhuāng) is a versatile and essential verb that translates most directly to the English concepts of 'pretending,' 'feigning,' or 'simulating.' At its core, it describes an intentional act where someone creates a false appearance or behavior to deceive others or to manage a social situation. The word is composed of two characters: 假 (jiǎ), meaning 'false' or 'fake,' and 装 (zhuāng), which refers to 'clothing,' 'outfit,' or 'to dress up.' Combined, the word literally suggests 'wearing a fake outfit' or 'putting on a false front.' This etymological background provides a vivid mental image: when you 假装, you are essentially putting on a psychological or behavioral costume.

Social Utility
In Chinese social dynamics, 假装 is frequently used to describe the preservation of 'face' (面子). For instance, one might pretend not to notice an embarrassing mistake made by a superior to maintain harmony. It is not always used in a negative or deceptive sense; it can also describe the innocent play of children or the polite behavior required in professional settings.
Emotional Management
People often use this word when discussing internal feelings versus external expressions. You might 假装开心 (pretend to be happy) even when you are sad, or 假装坚强 (pretend to be strong) during difficult times. This highlights the word's role in psychological resilience and social adaptation.
Theatricality
Beyond interpersonal lies, the word applies to performances. Actors 假装 to be characters, and children in a game of 'make-believe' are engaged in 假装游戏. It covers the spectrum from malicious lying to creative imagination.

他明明很生气,却还要假装不在乎。(Tā míngmíng hěn shēngqì, què hái yào jiǎzhuāng bùzàihu.) - He is clearly very angry, but he still insists on pretending not to care.

孩子们在公园里假装自己是超级英雄。(Háizimen zài gōngyuán lǐ jiǎzhuāng zìjǐ shì chāojí yīngxióng.) - The children are pretending to be superheroes in the park.

Understanding 假装 requires recognizing the nuance between 'deception' and 'performance.' While in English 'pretend' can sound slightly childish, in Chinese, 假装 is a robust word used across all age groups and formal levels. Whether you are talking about a spy 假装 a civilian or a student 假装 they did their homework, this word is the primary vehicle for that meaning. It is essential for learners because it appears frequently in daily conversations, literature, and media, often serving as a bridge between reality and the masks we wear in society. By mastering this word, you gain insight into how Chinese speakers navigate the complex layers of truth and social expectations.

Grammatically, 假装 (jiǎzhuāng) functions primarily as a verb. It is highly flexible in its placement and can be followed by various structures including other verbs, adjectives, or entire noun phrases and clauses. Understanding these patterns is key to using the word naturally in conversation.

Pattern 1: 假装 + Verb/Verb Phrase
This is the most common usage. It describes someone feigning an action. For example: 假装睡觉 (jiǎzhuāng shuìjiào) - to pretend to sleep. Another example: 假装没听见 (jiǎzhuāng méi tīngjiàn) - to pretend not to have heard.
Pattern 2: 假装 + Adjective
This describes feigning a state or emotion. Examples include 假装镇定 (jiǎzhuāng zhèndìng) - to pretend to be calm, or 假装很忙 (jiǎzhuāng hěn máng) - to pretend to be very busy. Note that the adjective often takes modifiers like '很' (hěn) to sound more natural.
Pattern 3: 假装 + 是/成 + Noun
When you want to say someone is pretending to be a specific person or thing, you use '是' (shì) or '成' (chéng). For example: 假装成一名医生 (jiǎzhuāng chéng yīmíng yīshēng) - to pretend to be a doctor. '成' implies a transformation or a disguise.

假装自己是一个富有的人。(Tā jiǎzhuāng zìjǐ shì yīgè fùyǒu de rén.) - He pretends that he is a wealthy person.

In more complex sentences, 假装 can be followed by a full clause. For instance, 他假装他根本不认识我 (Tā jiǎzhuāng tā gēnběn bù rènshi wǒ) - He pretended that he didn't know me at all. This structure is very common in storytelling and reporting gossip. Another nuance is the use of 假装 in the negative. 不要假装 (Bùyào jiǎzhuāng) - Don't pretend/stop pretending. This is a common imperative used when someone is being insincere. By varying the words that follow 假装, you can express everything from a simple physical act to a deep-seated emotional deception.

The word 假装 (jiǎzhuāng) is a staple of everyday Mandarin, appearing in diverse contexts ranging from playground games to high-stakes political dramas. Its frequency in the language reflects a cultural awareness of the gap between appearance and reality.

In Daily Life and Gossip
You will often hear this word when people discuss social interactions. Friends might say, '我假装没看到他,因为我太累了不想说话' (I pretended not to see him because I was too tired to talk). It’s a way of explaining social avoidance or white lies.
In TV Dramas and Movies
Chinese 'Palace Dramas' (宫廷剧) are filled with characters who 假装. A concubine might 假装生病 (pretend to be ill) to get the Emperor's attention, or a spy might 假装忠诚 (pretend to be loyal). The word is central to plots involving intrigue, betrayal, and hidden identities.
In Parenting and Education
Parents often use the word with children. '别假装你听不懂我的话' (Don't pretend you don't understand me). Conversely, teachers might use it in educational games, asking students to 假装 they are in a specific scenario to practice language skills.

在电影里,那个间谍假装成了一名普通的清洁工。(Zài diànyǐng lǐ, nàge jiàndié jiǎzhuāng chéngle yīmíng pǔtōng de qīngjiégōng.) - In the movie, that spy pretended to be an ordinary cleaner.

Furthermore, 假装 is a common theme in Chinese pop songs (C-pop). Many songs deal with the pain of 'pretending to be okay' after a breakup. Lyrics like '我假装我不痛' (I pretend I don't feel the pain) or '假装快乐' (Pretending to be happy) are incredibly common. This emotional usage makes the word highly relatable and easy to find in modern media. Whether you are scrolling through social media like Xiaohongshu or watching a variety show, you will see 假装 used to describe everything from 'fake' luxury lifestyles to humorous 'pretend' challenges. It is truly a word that bridges the gap between the mundane and the dramatic.

While 假装 (jiǎzhuāng) is straightforward in its basic meaning, learners often stumble over its nuances and how it differs from similar words. Avoiding these pitfalls will make your Chinese sound significantly more authentic.

Mistake 1: Confusing 假装 with 装 (zhuāng)
While can be a shorthand for 假装 in informal speech (e.g., '别装了' - stop faking it), has many other meanings like 'to install' or 'to pack.' Beginners often use 假装 where a more specific word is needed, or use in formal writing where the full 假装 is required. Remember: 假装 is always about pretending, while is broader.
Mistake 2: Using 假装 with the wrong particles
Learners sometimes try to use '得' (de) with 假装 incorrectly. You can say '假装得很像' (pretended very convincingly), but you cannot say '假装得睡觉'. The word 假装 is the main action, and what follows is the content of the pretense.
Mistake 3: Overusing it for 'Lying'
假装 is about behavior and state. If you are simply telling a verbal lie, 撒谎 (sāhuǎng) is more appropriate. Use 假装 when there is an element of 'acting' or 'simulating' involved, not just saying words that aren't true.

错误:他假装了一个谎言。(Incorrect: He pretended a lie.)
正确:他撒了一个谎。(Correct: He told a lie.)

Another subtle mistake is the confusion between 假装 and 虚构 (xūgòu). 虚构 is used for fictional creations, like a novelist 'inventing' a story. 假装 is for a person 'acting out' a role. If you say a book 'pretends' a story, it sounds like the book itself has a personality. Instead, say the author 虚构 the story. By keeping these distinctions in mind, you'll avoid the common 'clunky' phrasing that often marks a non-native speaker. Focus on the 'acting' aspect of 假装 and you will almost always use it correctly.

To truly master Chinese, you need to know when to use 假装 (jiǎzhuāng) and when to opt for its synonyms. Each word carries a slightly different 'flavor' or register.

假装 (jiǎzhuāng) vs. 装作 (zhuāngzuò)
These two are almost interchangeable. However, 装作 is slightly more focused on the *action* of the pretense. You often see 装作 in written literature. Example: 装作没看见 vs 假装没看见. Both are correct, but 假装 is more common in spoken Mandarin.
假装 (jiǎzhuāng) vs. 伪装 (wěizhuāng)
伪装 is more formal and often refers to 'camouflage' or 'disguise' in a more physical or strategic sense. A soldier uses 伪装 to hide in the grass. A criminal might 伪装 their handwriting. It implies a more elaborate or technical level of deception than the everyday 假装.
假装 (jiǎzhuāng) vs. 冒充 (màochōng)
冒充 specifically means to 'pass oneself off as' or 'impersonate' someone or something, usually for illegal or unethical gain. You 冒充 a police officer to commit a crime. 假装 is broader and can be harmless; 冒充 is almost always negative and specific to identity.

伪装成了一棵树,为了躲避敌人的搜查。(Tā wěizhuāng chéngle yīkē shù, wèile duǒbì dírén de sōuchá.) - He camouflaged himself as a tree to avoid the enemy's search.

Other alternatives include 虚张声势 (xūzhāngshēngshì), which means 'to make a feint' or 'to bluff,' often used in military or business contexts. There is also 装样 (zhuāngyàng), which is more colloquial and slightly derogatory, meaning 'to put on an act' or 'to show off.' For children playing, you might use 扮 (bàn), as in 扮家家酒 (playing house). Choosing the right word depends on whether you are describing a simple social lie, a military tactical disguise, or a child's game. As a learner, stick with 假装 for 90% of situations, but keep these alternatives in your back pocket for more precise communication.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

The character '假' (jiǎ) is a polyphone. When pronounced 'jià', it means 'holiday' or 'vacation' (如:放假). Many learners find it funny that 'pretending' and 'vacation' share the same character!

Guía de pronunciación

UK /dʒiɑː dʒwæŋ/
US /dʒiɑ dʒwæŋ/
The primary stress is on the second syllable 'zhuāng' in natural speech, although both characters are pronounced clearly.
Rima con
窗 (chuāng) 双 (shuāng) 霜 (shuāng) 桩 (zhuāng) 装 (zhuāng) 庄 (zhuāng) 脏 (zāng - partial) 光 (guāng - partial)
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing 'jiǎ' with the 4th tone (jià) instead of the 3rd tone.
  • Pronouncing 'zhuāng' like 'zhuang' in English (rhyming with 'bang') instead of the correct 'ahng' sound.
  • Misplacing the tone for '假' which changes the meaning (jià means 'holiday').
  • Failing to aspirate or correctly pronounce the 'zh' sound, making it sound like 'z'.
  • Treating the two characters as separate words rather than a single verb unit.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 2/5

The characters are relatively simple and common in texts.

Escritura 3/5

Writing '装' (zhuāng) correctly requires attention to the strokes in the '壮' and '衣' components.

Expresión oral 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, but tones must be accurate to avoid confusion with 'holiday'.

Escucha 2/5

Easily recognizable in speech due to its frequent use.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

假 (jiǎ - fake) 装 (zhuāng - to dress/install) 看 (kàn - to see) 听 (tīng - to hear) 是 (shì - to be)

Aprende después

伪装 (wěizhuāng - camouflage) 掩盖 (yǎngài - to cover up) 真相 (zhēnxiàng - truth) 面子 (miànzi - face/honor) 演戏 (yǎnxì - to act)

Avanzado

矫饰 (jiǎoshì) 虚张声势 (xūzhāngshēngshì) 阳奉阴违 (yángfèngyīnwéi) 弄假成真 (nòngjiǎchéngzhēn)

Gramática que debes saber

Resultative Complements

假装得很像 (Pretended so well it looked real).

Negative '没' vs '不'

假装没看见 (Pretend didn't see) vs 假装不认识 (Pretend not to know).

Directional Complements

假装走过去 (Pretend to walk over).

Using '成' for Transformation

假装成一名医生 (Pretend to be a doctor).

The 'Is/Are' linking

他假装他是老板 (He pretends he is the boss).

Ejemplos por nivel

1

我假装睡觉。

I pretend to sleep.

Simple Subject + 假装 + Verb structure.

2

他在假装一只猫。

He is pretending to be a cat.

Using 假装 to describe a simple role-play.

3

不要假装哭。

Don't pretend to cry.

Negative imperative '不要' + 假装.

4

我们假装在吃饭。

We are pretending to eat.

Using '在' to show an ongoing 'pretend' action.

5

她假装很开心。

She pretends to be very happy.

假装 + Adjective (with '很').

6

小狗假装听不见。

The puppy pretends not to hear.

假装 + Negative Verb (听不见).

7

我假装是一个老师。

I pretend to be a teacher.

假装 + 是 + Noun.

8

他们假装在跑步。

They are pretending to run.

Present continuous pretense.

1

他假装没看见我,走过去了。

He pretended not to see me and walked past.

Using 假装 to explain a social avoidance.

2

她假装生病,所以没去上学。

She pretended to be sick, so she didn't go to school.

Cause and effect sentence using 假装.

3

孩子们假装成超级英雄在玩。

The children are playing, pretending to be superheroes.

假装 + 成 (to become/as) + Noun.

4

我假装我很忙,不想接电话。

I pretend to be busy because I don't want to pick up the phone.

假装 + Adjective phrase + Reason.

5

他假装知道答案,但其实他不知道。

He pretended to know the answer, but actually he didn't.

Contrast using '但其实' (but actually).

6

别假装了,我知道你在笑。

Stop pretending, I know you are laughing.

Colloquial use of '别...了'.

7

她假装是一个游客,问路。

She pretended to be a tourist and asked for directions.

假装 + 是 + Noun + Action.

8

我假装我不累,继续工作。

I pretend I'm not tired and continue working.

假装 + Negative Adjective.

1

为了不让他担心,我假装一切都很好。

In order not to make him worry, I pretended everything was fine.

Using '为了' (in order to) to explain the motive for pretending.

2

他假装没听懂我的暗示。

He pretended not to understand my hint.

假装 + 没听懂 (resultative complement).

3

你没必要在我面前假装坚强。

There's no need for you to pretend to be strong in front of me.

假装 as part of an emotional advice sentence.

4

他假装成一名警察进入了建筑。

He pretended to be a policeman and entered the building.

假装成 + Noun as a method of deception.

5

我假装在看报纸,其实在偷听他们说话。

I pretended to be reading the newspaper, but I was actually eavesdropping.

Two simultaneous actions, one real, one fake.

6

她假装很淡定,但手一直在抖。

She pretended to be calm, but her hands were shaking.

Contrast between external pretense and physical reality.

7

大家都在假装没发生那件事。

Everyone is pretending that thing didn't happen.

Using 假装 for collective social behavior.

8

他假装自己很有钱,买了很多名牌。

He pretended to be wealthy by buying many luxury brands.

Using 假装 to describe a lifestyle choice.

1

那个间谍假装成记者的身份搜集情报。

That spy pretended to be a journalist to gather intelligence.

Professional context for 假装成.

2

他假装没收到那封邮件,以此来拖延时间。

He pretended not to have received that email as a way to stall for time.

Using '以此来' to show the strategic purpose of the pretense.

3

不要假装你对这个方案完全满意。

Don't pretend that you are completely satisfied with this proposal.

Focus on professional honesty vs. pretense.

4

她假装不经意地提到了那个话题。

She pretended to mention that topic casually.

假装 + Adverbial phrase (不经意地).

5

虽然他心里很慌,但表面上还要假装镇定。

Although he was panicking inside, he had to pretend to be calm on the surface.

Contrast between '心里' (inside) and '表面上' (on the surface).

6

有些人在社交媒体上假装过着完美的生活。

Some people pretend to live perfect lives on social media.

Societal commentary using 假装.

7

他假装自己是专家,骗取了大家的信任。

He pretended to be an expert and gained everyone's trust through deception.

Using 假装 to describe a fraudulent act.

8

我们不能再假装气候变化不存在了。

We can no longer pretend that climate change doesn't exist.

Abstract/Global context for the verb.

1

他在法庭上假装失忆,试图逃避法律责任。

He feigned amnesia in court in an attempt to evade legal responsibility.

Formal legal context.

2

这种假装的客气反而让人觉得很不舒服。

This kind of feigned politeness actually makes people feel very uncomfortable.

Using 假装 as a modifier for a noun (假装的 + Noun).

3

他擅长假装成各种社会角色来达到目的。

He is adept at pretending to be various social roles to achieve his goals.

Describing a skill or trait using 假装.

4

我们必须停止这种假装性努力,寻找真正的解决方案。

We must stop this pseudo-effort and look for real solutions.

Advanced term: '假装性努力' (performative work).

5

她假装漫不经心地问起他的前任,其实心里很在意。

She feigned indifference when asking about his ex, but she actually cared deeply.

Complex emotional nuance.

6

他假装没听见那些流言蜚语,展现出了极高的修养。

He pretended not to hear those rumors, demonstrating a high degree of self-cultivation.

Pretense as a virtue or sign of character.

7

政治家们有时不得不假装达成了一致。

Politicians sometimes have to pretend they have reached a consensus.

Political/Institutional context.

8

这种假装的繁荣掩盖了深层次的经济危机。

This feigned prosperity masks a deep-seated economic crisis.

Macro-economic discussion.

1

他那种假装出来的豁达,终究掩盖不了内心的狭隘。

His feigned open-mindedness ultimately fails to conceal his inner narrow-mindedness.

Sophisticated character analysis.

2

在这一场权力的游戏中,每个人都在假装,每个人都在演戏。

In this game of power, everyone is pretending, and everyone is acting.

Philosophical/Literary tone.

3

他以一种近乎完美的姿态假装对名利毫无兴趣。

With a near-perfect posture, he feigned a complete lack of interest in fame and fortune.

Describing a complex psychological state.

4

这种假装的民主不过是为独裁披上了一层合法的外衣。

This feigned democracy is nothing more than a legal cloak for dictatorship.

Political science terminology.

5

他假装不经意间的流露,其实是经过精心计算的表演。

What he feigned as an accidental revelation was, in fact, a meticulously calculated performance.

Deep analysis of intent and action.

6

文学作品往往通过假装的真实来探讨人性的本质。

Literary works often explore the essence of human nature through feigned reality.

Aesthetic/Philosophical discussion.

7

她假装出的那份从容,在关键时刻救了她的命。

The composure she feigned saved her life at the critical moment.

Narrative climax using pretense.

8

在这个虚伪的世界里,假装有时竟成了一种必要的生存技能。

In this hypocritical world, pretending sometimes becomes a necessary survival skill.

Cynical/Existential commentary.

Colocaciones comunes

假装睡觉
假装没听见
假装开心
假装成...
假装镇定
假装糊涂
假装关心
假装不在乎
假装忙碌
假装专业

Frases Comunes

别假装了

— Stop pretending. Used when you see through someone's act.

别假装了,我知道是你干的。

假装游戏

— Pretend play or make-believe games played by children.

孩子们喜欢玩假装游戏。

假装没看见

— To turn a blind eye or intentionally ignore someone/something.

过马路时,他假装没看见我。

假装生病

— To feign illness, often to avoid school or work.

他为了不去考试而假装生病。

假装不知道

— To play dumb or pretend to be ignorant of a fact.

其实他知道真相,但他假装不知道。

假装坚强

— To put on a brave face despite internal suffering.

她一直在假装坚强,不想让父母担心。

假装路过

— To pretend to be just passing by to hide one's true destination or intent.

他假装路过她家门口,其实是在等她。

假装客气

— To be fake polite; to show insincere courtesy.

他们的假装客气让人觉得很尴尬。

假装点头

— To nod as if agreeing or understanding when one is not.

他假装点头,其实根本没听明白。

假装大方

— To pretend to be generous when one is actually stingy.

他假装大方地请客,其实心里很心疼钱。

Se confunde a menudo con

假装 vs 假 (jiǎ)

Means 'fake' (adjective). 假装 is the verb 'to pretend'.

假装 vs 假 (jià)

Means 'holiday'. Same character, different tone and meaning.

假装 vs 装 (zhuāng)

Can mean 'to pack' or 'to install'. Only means 'pretend' in specific contexts.

Modismos y expresiones

"虚张声势"

— To make a false display of strength; to bluff.

他那只是在虚张声势,别被他吓到了。

Formal/Strategic
"阳奉阴违"

— Feigning compliance while secretly acting in opposition.

他在工作中总是阳奉阴违,让领导很头疼。

Formal/Critical
"装聋作哑"

— To pretend to be deaf and dumb; to ignore something on purpose.

面对不公平的事情,我们不能装聋作哑。

Neutral/Idiomatic
"掩耳盗铃"

— To plug one's ears while stealing a bell; to deceive oneself.

你这种做法简直是掩耳盗铃,自欺欺人。

Literary/Critical
"指桑骂槐"

— To point at the mulberry tree while reviling the locust tree; to make oblique accusations.

她假装在骂孩子,其实是在指桑骂槐说我呢。

Colloquial/Literary
"弄假成真"

— What was said or done in pretense has become a reality.

他们本来是假装情侣,没想到最后弄假成真了。

Neutral
"半推半就"

— To pretend to resist while actually yielding.

他半推半就地接受了那份礼物。

Neutral
"故作镇静"

— To deliberately act calm; to affect a composed manner.

虽然心里很慌,他还是故作镇静地走上台。

Written
"装腔作势"

— To put on airs; to behave in an affected or pretentious manner.

他说话总是装腔作势的,真让人受不了。

Critical
"假戏真做"

— To take a fake situation and act as if it were real, or for a fake thing to become real.

这场演习他们假戏真做,非常投入。

Neutral

Fácil de confundir

假装 vs 装作

Almost identical meaning.

装作 is more common in written literature, while 假装 is the standard spoken and written term.

他装作若无其事。

假装 vs 伪装

Both involve being 'fake'.

伪装 implies a physical disguise or strategic camouflage (like a soldier), while 假装 is about behavior or state.

狐狸伪装成猎犬。

假装 vs 冒充

Both involve pretending to be someone else.

冒充 is specifically for fraud or illegal impersonation. 假装 is broader and can be harmless.

冒充名牌手机。

假装 vs 虚构

Both involve things that aren't real.

虚构 refers to creating fiction (like a book). 假装 refers to a person acting out a lie.

虚构的故事。

假装 vs 装腔作势

Both involve putting on an act.

装腔作势 is an idiom that specifically targets 'putting on airs' or being pretentious.

他说话装腔作势。

Patrones de oraciones

A1

我假装 + Verb

我假装睡觉。

A2

他假装没 + Verb

他假装没看见我。

A2

她假装很 + Adj

她假装很开心。

B1

假装成 + Noun

他假装成一个医生。

B1

假装 + Clause

我假装我不知道这件事。

B2

表面上假装...,其实...

他表面上假装不在乎,其实心里很难过。

C1

这种假装的 + Noun

这种假装的客气让人不舒服。

C2

假装出的 + Noun

她假装出的那份从容救了她。

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

假象 (jiǎxiàng - false appearance)
装束 (zhuāngshù - attire)
服装 (fúzhuāng - clothing)

Verbos

装作 (zhuāngzuò - to pretend)
伪装 (wěizhuāng - to camouflage)
包装 (bāozhuāng - to pack/wrap)

Adjetivos

虚假 (xūjiǎ - fake/false)
装假 (zhuāngjiǎ - affected/fake)

Relacionado

假货 (jiǎhuò - counterfeit goods)
假话 (jiǎhuà - lies)
假山 (jiǎshān - rockery)
假发 (jiǎfà - wig)
装模作样 (zhuāngmúzuòyàng - to put on an act)

Cómo usarlo

frequency

Extremely frequent in both spoken and written Mandarin.

Errores comunes
  • Using '假装' to mean 'to install'. 使用 '安装' (ānzhuāng).

    假装 only means to pretend. For installing equipment, use 安装.

  • Saying '假装一个谎言'. 说 '撒了一个谎'.

    You pretend to *do* something, you don't pretend *a noun* like a lie.

  • Confusing 'jiǎ' (3rd tone) with 'jià' (4th tone). 假装 (jiǎzhuāng) - 3rd tone.

    4th tone makes it mean 'holiday', which makes no sense in this context.

  • Using '假装' for fictional writing. 使用 '虚构' (xūgòu).

    Authors 'fabricate' stories, they don't 'pretend' them.

  • Omitting '成' when pretending to be a role. 假装成医生.

    While '假装是' is okay, '假装成' is more natural for a transformation/disguise.

Consejos

Verb Sequencing

When using 假装 with another verb, don't use 'to' like in English. Just say 假装 + Verb.

Face Saving

Understand that 假装 is a key part of maintaining social harmony in China.

Tone Accuracy

Keep the 3rd tone on 'jiǎ' low and dipping to distinguish it from 'holiday'.

Synonym Choice

Use '伪装' for spies and '假装' for everyday social lies.

The 'Zhuang' Slang

In youth slang, '装' (zhuāng) is used to call someone out for being pretentious or 'extra'.

Character Structure

Practice the bottom part of '装' which is '衣' (clothing).

Negative Pretense

Use '假装没...' to say 'pretend not to...'. It's very common.

Context Clues

If you hear 'jiǎ' and the topic is work or school, it's likely 'pretending' or 'holiday'.

Role Play

The best way to learn this word is to describe children's games.

Intent Matters

假装 can be playful, polite, or malicious. Always look at the speaker's intent.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of 'JIA' as 'Just In Appearance' and 'ZHUANG' as 'putting on a costume (Strong/Dress)'. You are 'Just In Appearance putting on a Strong front.'

Asociación visual

Imagine a person holding a smiling mask in front of a crying face. The mask is the '假' (fake) and the act of holding/wearing it is the '装' (outfit/act).

Word Web

Fake Costume Acting Lying Social Mask Face-saving Play Simulation

Desafío

Try to spend 5 minutes today '假装' you are a native Chinese speaker. Use only Chinese gestures and basic words you know. Then describe the experience using '我假装...'.

Origen de la palabra

The word is a compound of '假' (jiǎ) and '装' (zhuāng). '假' originally referred to borrowing or something not inherent, leading to the meaning of 'false.' '装' originally meant to pack clothes for a journey or to dress oneself.

Significado original: To dress oneself in a false manner or to put on a borrowed appearance.

Sino-Tibetan (Mandarin Chinese).

Contexto cultural

Be careful when telling someone '别假装了' (Stop pretending). It can be quite confrontational, implying the person is being fake or hypocritical.

In English, 'pretend' often has a childish connotation (playing make-believe). In Chinese, '假装' is used equally for adults in serious or social contexts.

The song '假装' by Jolin Tsai (蔡依林) is a famous C-pop track about pretending to be okay after a breakup. The movie 'Pretend' (假装) themes are common in Hong Kong cinema involving undercover cops. Classical literature often uses the theme of '假装' in stories like 'The Romance of the Three Kingdoms' where strategists use pretense to win battles.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Social Situations

  • 假装没看见
  • 假装不在乎
  • 假装很忙
  • 假装客气

Childhood Play

  • 假装是超级英雄
  • 假装在做饭
  • 玩假装游戏
  • 假装成小动物

Workplace

  • 假装听懂了
  • 假装在加班
  • 假装同意
  • 假装很专业

Emotional States

  • 假装坚强
  • 假装开心
  • 假装不痛
  • 假装镇定

Legal/Crime

  • 假装失忆
  • 假装成受害者
  • 假装不知道法律
  • 假装成警察

Inicios de conversación

"你曾经为了躲避某人而假装没看见他吗?"

"你觉得在工作中假装很忙是必要的吗?"

"小时候你最喜欢假装成什么角色?"

"当你难过的时候,你会假装开心吗?"

"你有没有假装听懂别人说话的经历?"

Temas para diario

描写一次你不得不假装坚强的经历,当时发生了什么?

谈谈你对社交媒体上人们‘假装完美生活’的看法。

如果可以假装成另外一个人一天,你会选择谁?为什么?

讨论一下‘假装糊涂’在处理人际关系中的作用。

写一个关于一个间谍假装成普通人的短故事。

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

Yes, it can. For example, you can '假装' to be surprised at a surprise party to make your friends happy. It is a neutral verb whose morality depends on the intent.

撒谎 (sāhuǎng) means to tell a verbal lie. 假装 (jiǎzhuāng) means to act out a lie through behavior, appearance, or state. You can 撒谎 without 假装, and vice versa.

Not always. '装' can mean 'to pack' (装行李) or 'to install' (装空调). It only means 'pretend' when the context implies acting or faking.

You can use '假装是' (jiǎzhuāng shì) or '假装成' (jiǎzhuāng chéng). '成' implies a more complete change into that role.

Yes. For example, '小猫假装没看见老鼠' (The cat pretended not to see the mouse).

No, it is primarily a verb. To use it as a noun, you usually add '的' to make it '假装的' (a pretend/fake thing) or use other words like '假象'.

There isn't a very 'polite' way to say this because the concept is confrontational. You might say '请诚实一点' (Please be a bit more honest) instead.

It is generally considered A2 level, as it is a basic verb for describing human interaction.

It can take '了' to show the start of the pretense: '他假装了很久' (He pretended for a long time).

Yes, this means 'pretended very well' or 'did a good job of acting.'

Ponte a prueba 180 preguntas

writing

Write a sentence: 'He pretends to be a teacher.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence: 'I pretend I am not tired.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence: 'Don't pretend to be happy.'

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence: 'He pretended not to see me.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence: 'The children are pretending to be cats.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Explain a time you had to '假装镇定'. (2 sentences)

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Stop pretending, I know the truth.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'She feigned illness to skip the meeting.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using '假装成'.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Describe '假装性努力' in your own words. (Chinese)

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using '假装没听见'.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using '假装很忙'.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Pretending is a social skill.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence about a spy using '伪装'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'He feigned amnesia in court.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using '假装关心'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Pretending to be happy is exhausting.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using '别装了'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'They pretended to agree on a consensus.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a short dialogue (4 lines) using '假装'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Pronounce '假装' (jiǎzhuāng) out loud. Focus on the 3rd tone and 1st tone.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'I pretend to sleep' in Chinese.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'He pretends not to know' in Chinese.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Ask a friend: 'Are you pretending to be busy?'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Don't pretend, I saw you!'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Describe a child pretending to be a doctor in Chinese.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'I pretended to be calm, but I was nervous.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Discuss: Why do people '假装开心'?

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Use the idiom '装聋作哑' in a sentence about politics.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Explain the difference between '假装' and '伪装'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'He feigned amnesia.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'I pretended to agree with the boss.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'The puppy pretends not to hear.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Pretending to be perfect is hard.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Tell someone to stop pretending to be a professional.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'I pretended to like the gift.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'She pretended not to care about the grades.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'We are pretending to be in a movie.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'He pretended to be a tourist.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'This is feigned prosperity.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to: '他假装没看见我。' What did he do?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to: '别装了,我知道是你。' What is the speaker's tone?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to: '孩子们在玩假装游戏。' What are the kids doing?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to: '她假装生病没去上班。' Why didn't she go to work?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to: '他假装成了一名医生。' What is his fake identity?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to: '我假装很忙,其实在玩手机。' What is the person actually doing?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to: '这种假装的客气真虚伪。' What does the speaker think of the politeness?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to: '他假装不在乎成绩。' Does he care about his grades?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to: '间谍伪装成了普通人。' What word for 'disguise' was used?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to: '别假装你听懂了。' What is the warning?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to: '他假装没收到我的信息。' What happened to the message?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to: '这种假装性努力很普遍。' Is this common?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to: '他假装镇定地走上台。' How did he walk on stage?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to: '弄假成真了。' Did the pretense stay fake?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to: '假装开心是很累的。' What is exhausting?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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