Dissemble
hardNegative tonedih-SEM-bul
verb
Definition
To conceal one's true motives, feelings, or beliefs; to feign
Memory hook
DIS-SEMBLE: DIS-assemble the truth — to conceal one's true motives or feelings behind a false appearance.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“Politicians often dissemble when asked direct questions.”
“She could not dissemble her disappointment at the news.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“Politicians often ______ when asked direct questions.”
Show answer
dissemble
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Dissemble is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "feign" or "dissimulate" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "reveal".
Related GRE Words
artifice
Clever or cunning devices or expedients, especially to deceive; trickery
chicanery
The use of trickery to achieve a political, financial, or legal purpose
duplicity
Deceitfulness; double-dealing
equivocate
To use ambiguous language to avoid committing to a position; to be deliberately vague
malingerer
one who feigns illness to avoid work or duty
mendacious
given to lying; dishonest
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