pretence turns into reality; a joke becomes real
Meanings
1 sense · 4 examplesidiom
pretence turns into reality; a joke or act becomes real
neutralUsed to describe situations where something started as a simulation, play-acting, or joke but unintentionally developed into a serious reality. Often implies unintended consequences.
They were originally just pretending to be a couple, but unexpectedly, affection grew over time, and they really got married. It truly turned pretence into reality.
The company made a short film for publicity, but it went viral online and attracted many investors. This is practically a joke turning into reality.
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Friends were joking about starting a business together, but as they talked, they got more serious and ended up really registering a company. It was a case of pretence becoming reality.
This character was initially just a guest role, but unexpectedly, the audience responded enthusiastically, and he eventually became a permanent lead actor. You could say the act turned real.