Definitions

pretext

[pree-tekst] / ˈpri tɛkst /

NOUN

disguise; alleged reason

Synonyms

STRONGEST

alibi come-off excuse guise ploy pretense ruse

STRONG

affectation appearance bluff cleanup cloak color coloring cover cover-up device face feint front mask masquerade plea routine semblance show simulation stall stratagem subterfuge veil

WEAK

cop-out cover story fig leaf red herring song and dance

Antonyms

STRONGEST

reality

STRONG

back rear truth

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Pretext is not for the faint of heart.

From Slate • Mar. 13, 2017

Convenient Pretext Might such a demonstration have worked?

From Time Magazine Archive

In The Light at the Center: Context and Pretext of Modern Mysticism, Bharati unscrews the inscrutable with the precision tools of language, philosophy and behavioral science.

From Time Magazine Archive

Cause and Pretext, distinction between, to be observed by historians, iii.

From Curiosities of Literature, Vol. 3 by Disraeli, Isaac

Pretext or not," said she, sharply, "this solitary walk, taken without consulting any one, was to the last degree improper.

From Under a Charm, Vol. I (of III) A Novel by Werner, E.

Vocabulary lists containing pretext

Animal Farm

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Unit 1: Telling Details

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Grade 11, List 2

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!