pretext — A reason given in justification of a course of action that is not the real reason
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: A reason given in justification of a course of action that is not the real reason
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈpriː.tekst/
Example Sentences
- My coworker used a fake stomachache as a pretext to leave work early and watch the baseball game.
- In the civil service exam, questions about 'pretext' often appear in reading comprehension passages about historical events.
- She invited me over under the pretext of returning my book, but really she just wanted to gossip.
pretext
NOUN[/ˈpriː.tekst/]
A reason given in justification of a course of action that is not the real reason
He used work as a pretext to skip his cousin's boring wedding.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin praetextus, originally denoting a garment woven in front or on the surface. The term specifically referred to the toga praetexta, a ceremonial robe with a purple border worn by Roman magistrates. The metaphorical shift from a garment that concealed one's true status to a false reason or excuse reflects how external appearances can mask underlying realities.
Breakdown
prae- (before, in front) + texere (to weave) + -tus (past participle suffix), literally 'woven before or on the surface'. The noun evolved from describing a physical outer garment to denoting any superficial or false justification that conceals true intentions.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My coworker used a fake stomachache as a pretext to leave work early and watch the baseball game.”
“In the civil service exam, questions about 'pretext' often appear in reading comprehension passages about historical events.”
“She invited me over under the pretext of returning my book, but really she just wanted to gossip.”
“The company laid off workers under the pretext of restructuring, but everyone knew it was just to cut costs.”
📚Related Words
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