English vocabulary · B2
Pretext
/ˈpriːtekst/ · n.
It means a false reason you give to hide the real reason.
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Example sentences
- She used work as a pretext.
- His quick call was a pretext to leave.
Word origin and roots
from Latin
- pre — before (from Latin)
- text — weave (from Latin)
Synonyms and nuances
- excuse (giving a reason to avoid blame)
- reason (explaining an action, true or not)
- cover (hiding real motives behind a story)
Words with the same root
texere — to weave
- text — something woven together with words — written content
- textile — material woven from threads
- texture — the feel of something woven or made — its surface quality
Lesson notes
Pretext. It means a false reason you give to hide the real reason. The excuse stands in front, while the truth stays behind.
Similar words are excuse, reason, and cover. Use pretext when a false reason hides truth.
She used work as a pretext. His quick call was a pretext to leave.
Pre means before. Text means weave. A pretext is a reason woven in front of truth.