I would rather pretend that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I would rather pretend that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a preference for imagining or believing something that may not be true or real. Example: "I would rather pretend that everything is fine than face the harsh reality of the situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

To be fighting against yourself over the smallest of activities is exhausting -- no wonder that I would rather pretend that everything is fine, and carry on striving to be as perfect as possible.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Rather than have a robust debate, however, the Bush administration would rather pretend that criticism undermines American resolve and is always politically motivated.

The New York Times

VC-funded companies could play a larger role, but most would rather pretend that Bitcoin will be maintained by others.

TechCrunch

But Schumer, who has himself raised $1.65 million from the financial services sector, would rather pretend that he lives in a world where all of that money isn't having any sort of impact on lawmaking, and in which pointing that out is hurtful.

Huffington Post

They'd rather pretend that economics is much more complicated.

Forbes

They'd rather pretend that tax cuts will magically do tomorrow what they haven't done yesterday or today.

Huffington Post

We are a culture that would rather pretend to be Jay-Z instead of admitting that we are more often than not Donald Glover.

Huffington Post

We have noticed the small scared part of all of us that would rather pretend this isn't possible than face such a terrible and overwhelming prospect.

Huffington Post

It's not about selling, it's not even necessarily about being good, it's about defiantly expressing your existence in a world that would rather pretend you didn't exist at all.

Vice

"Many would rather pretend not to see their problems.

The Guardian

Such a playful yet deeply disturbing reference to the ill times we have brought on the world arouse not a pleasurable make-believe shudder, but the real fear we'd rather pretend we don't feel, a fear that is not simply irrational.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I would rather pretend that" to express a deliberate choice to believe something more comforting or desirable, even if it's not entirely truthful.

Common error

Avoid using "I would rather pretend that" in formal or professional settings where directness and honesty are expected. Opt for more straightforward language that acknowledges reality.

Linguistic Context

Expressing Preference and Imagination: The phrase "I would rather pretend that" functions primarily to express a preference for a particular belief or imagined scenario, often in contrast to a less desirable reality. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I would rather pretend that" serves as a vehicle for expressing a preference for an imagined reality over a less desirable one. As Ludwig AI points out, it's a valid and usable expression in English. While grammatically correct and commonly used, its register leans towards informal contexts. The examples illustrate its use in personal reflections and narratives, emphasizing a desire to avoid unpleasant truths. When opting for alternatives, consider factors like directness and context formality. Ultimately, "I would rather pretend that" offers a window into the human tendency to seek comfort in the realm of imagination.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I'd rather believe

Shortens the phrase, removing "pretend that" but retaining the core meaning of preferring a particular belief.

I'd prefer to imagine

Uses "prefer" instead of "rather", simplifying the structure.

I'd prefer to think

Uses "prefer" and "think" for a similar meaning, but without the explicit act of "pretending".

I'd sooner assume that

Replaces "pretend" with "assume", implying a choice to believe something without proof.

I'd lean towards believing that

Emphasizes a tendency to believe, rather than actively pretending.

I'd opt to think that

Focuses on the act of choosing a particular thought or belief.

I'm inclined to believe that

Indicates a natural inclination to a certain belief.

I'm more likely to assume that

Highlights the likelihood of making an assumption.

I'd be happier thinking that

Introduces an element of happiness or contentment associated with the chosen belief.

I find it easier to imagine that

Focuses on the ease of imagining as a motivating factor.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "I would rather pretend that" to sound more direct?

Consider alternatives like "I prefer to think", "I choose to believe", or "I assume" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to use the phrase "I would rather pretend that"?

Not necessarily. It can be used to express a coping mechanism or a preference for optimism in difficult situations. However, overuse may suggest denial or unwillingness to face reality.

What's the difference between "I would rather pretend that" and "I wish that were true"?

"I would rather pretend that" suggests a conscious choice to imagine something different, while "I wish that were true" expresses a desire for something that is not currently the case. The former implies a more active role in creating an alternative reality.

When is it appropriate to use "I would rather pretend that" in writing?

This phrase is suitable for informal writing, personal essays, or fictional narratives where characters might be engaging in self-deception or wishful thinking. Avoid it in professional or academic contexts where objectivity is valued.