pretext
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈpriːtɛkst/
KK: /ˈpriːtɛkst/
noun
Definition
A reason or excuse given to hide the true intention behind an action.
Example
He used a pretext of being busy to avoid attending the meeting.
Conversation
Did you hear about the meeting they called on such short notice?
Yeah, it seems like a bit of a pretext for something else.
I agree; it feels like they want to cover something up.
Exactly! I wonder what they’re really trying to hide.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
excuse
pretense
guise
Antonyms
truth
fact
reality
transitive verb
Definition
To use something as a reason or excuse for doing something, often to hide the true intention.
Example
He used a minor issue as a pretext to avoid the meeting.
Tense Forms
Past: pretexted
Past Participle: pretexted
Conversation
Did you hear about Jake's excuse for missing the meeting?
Yeah, he tried to use a pretext about being sick.
Right? It's so obvious he just wanted a day off.
Root Explanation
Pretext → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "textus" (meaning woven or text). The word "pretext" refers to a reason given in justification of a course of action that is not the real reason, essentially a 'woven' excuse presented before the actual intention.
Memory Tip
Think of a reason that is 'woven' ('textus') before the real reason ('pre-') — that's why a pretext is an excuse that comes before the truth.
Visually Confused Words
praetexta
protext