Pretext

usgb/ˈpriːtekst/
noun

An excuse or reason that is not true, used to cover up the real purpose or reason.

He used his friend’s birthday party as a pretext to leave work early.
Visual representation of "pretext" - An excuse or reason that is not true, used to cover up the real purpose or reason.

Often appears as...

  • under the pretext of
  • pretext for
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "pretext"
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Deceptive Intentions

Pretext is used when someone hides their true intent behind a false reason.

Illustration for Deceptive Intentions
She said she needed to borrow my notes as a pretext, but she just wanted to see me.
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Concealing Truth

Using pretext suggests intentional deceit, not just an accidental untruth.

Illustration for Concealing Truth
Claiming to be ill, he stayed home under the pretext of sickness, while he was actually fine.
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Unjustifiable Excuse

A pretext is often seen as an insufficient or unworthy excuse for an action.

Illustration for Unjustifiable Excuse
He used tiredness as a pretext to avoid attending the meeting.
Visual representation of the word "Pretext"

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