Boasting : excessively proud and self-satisfied talk about one's achievements, possessions, or abilities. Pretence : an attempt to make something that is not the case appear true. Pedantry : excessive concern with minor details and rules. Euphemism : a mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt when referring to something unpleasant or embarrassing. Affectation : behaviour, speech, or writing that is pretentious and designed to impress.