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pretext

Noun

IPA /ˈpriːtekst/

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Meaning in plain English

A reason given to hide the real reason for doing something.

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Pronunciation

pretext/ˈpriːtekst/

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The stated reason: bad weather
The real reason: wanting to leave

A pretext is a reason offered to conceal the true motive for an action.

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He used the rain as a pretext to leave the picnic early.
She entered the office on the pretext of collecting a file, hoping to hear the discussion.

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He used the rain as a ________ to leave the picnic early.

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pretext — A reason given to hide the real reason for doing something.

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A reason given to hide the real reason for doing something.

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Word origin

From Latin praetextus, outward display, related to praetexere, to disguise or weave in front.

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A pretext is presented as a reason, but it conceals the true motive.

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