vor|geben
Translation
to pretend, to feign, to specify, to set
Examples
Er gibt vor, krank zu sein.
He pretends to be sick.
Die Regeln geben die Richtung vor.
The rules specify the direction.
Sie gab Unwissenheit vor.
She feigned ignorance.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to feign sth. She feigned ignorance.
to pretend ((to do sth.)) He pretends to be sick.
((sb.dat)) ((sth.acc)) to set sth. for sb. The coach sets the strategy for the team.
Similar Words
Synonyms: to feign, to simulate; Antonyms: to admit, to confess
Etymology
Composed of 'vor-' (before, in front) and 'geben' (to give). Literally 'to put forward', which can imply putting forward a false appearance (pretending) or a guideline (specifying).
Memory Tips
Think of 'giving' (geben) a reason or excuse 'beforehand' (vor) to justify something, which can involve pretending.