farce - A deceptive action that someone tries to fool others into believing that he takes it seriously
Everyone in town knew that a bridge at the busy intersection was needed, but they felt that all the Mayor's activity about the subject was just a farce because he didn't really take the problem seriously.
relent - To surrender or agree after resisting or opposing, often due to persuasion, pressure, or changing circumstances.
Out of pride, he would always refuse to accept assitance, but when things hit rock bottom, he relented, and finally accepted help from others.