make as if to (do something)
To act like or make a motion as if one is about to do something. When you get the ball, make as if to shoot it, and then pass it to Billy instead—he should be wide open. I didn't get up, but only because you made as if to answer the door!
make as if to do something
to act as if one were about to do something. The thief made as if to run away but changed his mind. Jane made as if to smack the child.
make as if to do something
(written) make a movement that makes it seem as if you are just going to do something: He made as if to speak.