Pass off as
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Deception Intent
Use 'pass off as' when someone intends to deceive or trick others by imitating something or someone. 
She tried to pass off as a celebrity to get the VIP treatment.
Pro Tip 2/3Imitation Level
'Pass off as' usually suggests a good, but not perfect, imitation that could fool some people. 
He managed to pass off as a doctor until someone noticed his lack of medical knowledge.
Pro Tip 3/3Spotting Differences
To understand 'pass off as,' look for small inconsistencies to spot what's fake. 
The fake designer bag almost passed off as genuine, but the stitching was off.