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as in show
a display of emotion or behavior that is insincere or intended to deceive
was putting on an act when she said she didn't mind being left out of the outing
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3
as in law
a rule of conduct or action laid down by a governing authority and especially a legislature
the Americans with Disabilities Act requires public buildings to have wheelchair access
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4
as in thing
something done by someone
it's acts such as this—lying about having to work late—that make me feel like I can't trust you
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as in to play
to present a portrayal or performance of
a local student acted the part of Tiny Tim in our theater company's production of A Christmas Carol
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as in to pretend
to present a false appearance of
if you act confident long enough, you'll begin to actually feel it
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as in to mock
to pretend to be (what one is not) in appearance or behavior
someone who is willing to act the helpless little thing when she wants attention
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as in to be (to)
to behave toward in a stated way
I would never act toward my boss that way
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Cite this Entry
“Act.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/act. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.
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