Words / C1

PREET-ekst/ˈpriːtekst/

A pretext is a false reason given to hide the real one: a pretext for a cut, on the pretext of culture. Excuse (already in the dictionary) is everyday; agile talk does not fill a night cell.

Meaning

A false reason given to hide the real one (from excuse, already in the dictionary).

Examples

• ““Agile culture” is a pretext if the night cell is empty; name the spare.”
• “Excuse is already in this course. Cover story is the close twin. Agile is a slogan. A name on the log is cover. Write the name; then call it agile if the grid is still full.”

Good to know

A false reason covering the real one. Everyday: excuse (already in the dictionary). “Agile” ≠ a named spare.

Near in meaning

excuse, cover, smokescreen

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