Pretext
Noun
Definition: A reason given in justification of a course of action that is not the real reason.
Synonyms: Excuse, Cover, Pretense
Antonyms: Truth, Honesty, Candor
Examples:
- She used a minor illness as a pretext for not attending the meeting.
- His invitation to see his new apartment was just a pretext to ask for money.
Mnemonics:
- "Pretext" sounds like "pre-text", which implies something before the real text or reason.
Etymology:
Origin:
Late Middle English via Old French from Latin 'praetextus', from the verb 'praetexere' (from 'prae' 'before' + 'texere' 'to weave, construct').
Historical Usage:The word originated in Latin and has been used in English since the late Middle Ages.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Under the pretext of"
Explanation:This phrase indicates that someone is using a false reason or excuse to hide their true intentions or actions.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Confusing "pretext" with "text".
Explanation:"Pretext" refers to a false reason, while "text" refers to written or printed words.