act as if
Simulate a reality
Act as if means to behave as though something were true, regardless of whether it is.
The phrase often suggests deliberate performance or self-deception: Act as if you belong and no one will question you.
In psychology and self-help contexts, it describes adopting behaviors associated with a desired state to bring about that state: Act as if you're confident until you actually are.
- rolePosition or part
- play the partPerform as a character
- visualizationForming mental or graphical images
- maskFace-worn concealment
- social maskPerformed identity for others
pragmatism · mind over matter · self-fulfilling prophecy · dramaturgy · impression management · fake it · mimic · make believe · positive thinking · growth mindset · self-concept · leadership training · cognitive dissonance · bluff · confidence trick · William James · mental simulation · pretense
act as ifbe authentic
Act without pretense
be oneself · act naturally · be honest · show true colors · wear one's heart on one's sleeve
act as ifacknowledge
Confirm receipt or truth
confront · come to terms with · admit · face facts · recognize
act, action, active, actor, acting, activity, actress, react, as if