pretext

🇬🇧 UK/'pri:tekst/🇺🇸 US
IELTSGREA2

Definitions

n.

A false or invented reason used to conceal one's true purpose; an excuse

借口,托词

v.

To use a false or contrived reason to obtain something

以…为借口

🧩 Root Breakdown

Root-derived
prebefore
+
textstem
=pretext

Common Collocations

  • 1.under the pretext of以……为借口
  • 2.use as a pretext将……作为托词
  • 3.on the pretext of借口……之名
  • 4.mere pretext纯粹的借口

Example Sentences

  • 1.

    He used a business meeting as a pretext to avoid attending the family dinner.

  • 2.

    The government's stated concern for public safety was merely a pretext for censorship.

  • 3.

    She called under the pretext of asking for advice, but really wanted to gossip.

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