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- Dictionarypretext/ˈpriːtɛkst/
noun
- 1. a reason given in justification of a course of action that is not the real reason: "the rebels had the perfect pretext for making their move"
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PRETEXT definition: 1. a pretended reason for doing something that is used to hide the real reason: 2. a pretended…. Learn more.
The meaning of PRETEXT is a purpose or motive alleged or an appearance assumed in order to cloak the real intention or state of affairs. How to use pretext in a sentence. Synonym Discussion of Pretext.
Pretext definition: something that is put forward to conceal a true purpose or object; an ostensible reason; excuse. See examples of PRETEXT used in a sentence.
PRETEXT meaning: 1. a pretended reason for doing something that is used to hide the real reason: 2. a pretended…. Learn more.
A pretext is a reason which you pretend has caused you to do something. They wanted a pretext for subduing the region by force. [ + for] He excused himself on the pretext of a stomach upset. They would now find some dubious pretext to restart the war. Synonyms: guise, excuse, veil, show More Synonyms of pretext.
Pretext is a false reason given for doing something. If you catch your mother going through your drawers, and she says she was just tidying up, cleaning was her pretext for snooping. Sometimes a government will try to take away its citizens' rights under the pretext of national security.
pretext. noun. /ˈpriːtekst/. /ˈpriːtekst/. a false reason that you give for doing something, usually something bad, in order to hide the real reason; an excuse. (as a) pretext for (doing) something The incident was used as a pretext for intervention in the area.
n. 1. a fictitious reason given in order to conceal the real one. 2. a specious excuse; pretence. [C16: from Latin praetextum disguise, from praetexere to weave in front, disguise; see texture]
Jun 2, 2024 · A false, contrived, or assumed purpose or reason; a pretense . Synonyms: see Thesaurus: pretext. The reporter called the company on the pretext of trying to resolve a consumer complaint.
A pretext (adj.: pretextual) is an excuse to do something or say something that is not accurate. Pretexts may be based on a half-truth or developed in the context of a misleading fabrication. Pretexts have been used to conceal the true purpose or rationale behind actions and words.
