pretext
word
Definition
A pretext is a false reason given to hide the real purpose or true reason for doing something.
Usage & Nuances
'Pretext' is formal and often used in written English; common collocations: 'under the pretext of', 'use as a pretext'. It suggests deliberate deception. Don't confuse with 'excuse,' which can be more neutral.
Spanish: pretextoPortuguese (BR): pretextoPortuguese (PT): pretextoChinese (Simplified): 借口Chinese (Traditional): 藉口Hindi: बहानाArabic: ذريعةBengali: অজুহাত - ছুতোRussian: предлог - отговорка (ложный)Japanese: 口実Vietnamese: cái cớ - lý do giảKorean: 구실 - 핑계Turkish: bahane - gerekçe (sahte)Urdu: بہانہIndonesian: alasan palsu - dalih
Example Sentences
She used work as a pretext to avoid the party.
basic
They called off the meeting under the pretext of bad weather.
basic
She never needs a real reason; any little thing becomes her pretext to leave.
natural
Politicians often find a convenient pretext to delay tough decisions.
natural
He left early on the pretext of feeling sick.
basic
“Under the pretext of helping, he actually made things worse,” she complained.
natural