noun
Uncommon
pretext
PREE-tehkst
Pretext (noun) means a false reason given to hide the real motive behind an action. Example: “He used a doctor's appointment as a pretext to leave the meeting early.”
noun
1
A false reason given to hide the real motive behind an action.
"He used a doctor's appointment as a pretext to leave the meeting early."
"The invasion was launched under the pretext of self-defence."
How to use pretext
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn excuse used to mask the true reason for doing something.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
under the pretext of
a pretext for
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Word forms
- Plural
- pretexts
- Third person singular
- pretexts
- Past tense
- pretexted
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He used a doctor's appointment as a _____ to leave the meeting early.
Etymology
From Latin praetextum, "an ornament woven in front" — figuratively, a cover story, from praetexere ("to weave in front, to disguise").
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “pretext” mean?
The word “pretext” means a false reason given to hide the real motive behind an action. In plain terms, an excuse used to mask the true reason for doing something.
How do you pronounce “pretext”?
“Pretext” is pronounced PREE-tehkst (/ˈpɹiːtɛkst/ in IPA).
How do you use “pretext” in a sentence?
Here is “pretext” used in a sentence: “He used a doctor's appointment as a pretext to leave the meeting early.”
What part of speech is “pretext”?
“Pretext” is a noun.
Where does the word “pretext” come from?
The word “pretext” comes from Latin. From Latin praetextum, "an ornament woven in front" — figuratively, a cover story, from praetexere ("to weave in front, to disguise").
Is “pretext” a common word?
“Pretext” is an uncommon word in modern English.
