General Usage:
* His affectation of a British accent was so obvious it was laughable.
* She spoke with an affectation of sophistication that seemed out of place in the casual setting.
* The young actor's affectation of nonchalance couldn't mask his nervousness.
Using "Affectation" as a Noun:
* Her affectations included a fondness for vintage clothing and obscure poetry.
* The author's affectations of being a tortured artist were tiresome.
* He felt a sense of relief when he shed the affectations of his childhood and embraced his true self.
Using "Affectation" as a Verb (Less Common):
* She affected a nonchalant air, but her trembling hands betrayed her anxiety.
* He affected a deep interest in art, but it was clear he didn't understand it.
Key Points:
* Affectation usually implies an attempt to appear different or more sophisticated than one actually is.
* It can be a negative term, suggesting insincerity or a lack of authenticity.
* However, sometimes it can be used in a humorous way to describe someone who is trying too hard to be something they're not.