pretension

A specious allegation; a pretext.

A claim to something, such as a skill or profession.

The advancing of such a claim.

The unwarranted assumption that one is deserving of merit, or behavior indicative of such an assumption; pretentiousness.

An instance of pretentiousness.

The act of putting forth a claim (specifically, a false one), particularly to merit, dignity, or importance; pretentiousness.

Hence, a claim; an alleged or assumed right, not necessarily false.

A false representation; a pretext; a sham.