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prétexte

pretext, excuse

noun preh-TEKST Less Common

Origin: Latin praetextum (outward show)

Usage Note

prétexte is almost always used with sous in the phrase sous prétexte de/que meaning 'on the pretext of / claiming that'. It implies the reason given is not the real one. Do not confuse with excuse (f), which can be a genuine apology.

Examples

"Il est parti sous prétexte d'un rendez-vous."

Natural Translation

He left on the pretext of an appointment.

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