CEFR C1

pretext

noun

Meaning

A reason given to justify an action or belief, which is not the real reason.

Examples

She used the need to buy groceries as a pretext to leave the party early.
The invasion was launched under the pretext of national security.

Synonyms: excuse, reason, justification, alibi

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pretext (C1)

noun

Pronunciation: /ˈpriːtɛkst/

Definition

A reason given to justify an action or belief, which is not the real reason.

Examples

She used the need to buy groceries as a pretext to leave the party early.
The invasion was launched under the pretext of national security.
He claimed he was looking for a lost dog, but that was just a pretext to get into the house.

How to Use pretext

on the pretext of (prepositional phrase): Using a stated reason that is not the real reason for an action. — "He called her on the pretext of asking for directions."
under the pretext of (prepositional phrase): Using a stated reason that is not the real reason for an action. — "They entered the building under the pretext of a fire drill."

Synonyms of pretext

Words with a similar meaning to pretext:

Antonyms of pretext

Words with the opposite meaning to pretext:

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