a better pretext for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a better pretext for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a justification or reason for an action that is more favorable or convincing than another. Example: "He found a better pretext for his absence from the meeting, claiming he had a family emergency."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Could there be a better pretext for a disaster movie?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

As the truism states "a text without a context is a pretext for a prooftext".

Huffington Post

In a drama that could gallop along in equine imagery – all those fillies and nags – she is herself a Trojan horse, a pretext for war that does not stand up much better than weapons of mass destruction.

The Guardian

As a means of deception, as a social disguise, as a pretext for his appearance.

The New York Times - Books

The charge of illegal transport of a banned material was a pretext for the arrests.

The Guardian

In contrast, food inspectors cannot use their authority to inspect a restaurant kitchen as a pretext for searching the lockers of restaurant employees.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Seropositivity is not a pretext for an ongoing disease but a measure of exposure.

Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica

Mr Yunus says this is just a pretext for a power grab.

The Economist

Palestinians retort that these security concerns are a pretext for a land grab (see article).

The Economist

Supporters of the Workers' party leader say the charges are a pretext for a "coup".

The Guardian

Christmas should be a gastronomic pleasure, not just a pretext for eating several thousand calories.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a better pretext for", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the original, less satisfactory pretext was. This provides contrast and strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "a better pretext for" when you simply mean "a better reason". A "pretext" implies a hidden or ulterior motive, so ensure the context involves deception or concealment, even subtly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a better pretext for" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb or preposition. It suggests an improved or more convincing reason given to conceal a true motive, according to Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

17%

Science

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a better pretext for" is used to describe an improved or more convincing excuse or justification, often to conceal the real reason behind an action. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct. While it is not frequently used, it appears mainly in news and media contexts. Remember to consider the negative connotation of "pretext" when using this phrase, as it implies deception. When using "a better pretext for", ensure that the context provides a clear contrast with the original pretext and reflects the intention to mislead. Alternatives like "a more convincing excuse for" or "a stronger justification for" can be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a more convincing excuse for

Focuses on the level of believability of the justification.

a stronger justification for

Highlights the solidity and defensibility of the reason.

a more valid reason for

Emphasizes the legitimacy and correctness of the reason.

a superior rationale for

Implies a more thoughtful and logical basis.

a preferable alibi for

Suggests a more desirable explanation to conceal something.

a more advantageous excuse for

Highlights the benefit derived from using that justification.

a more acceptable rationale for

Focuses on the social or moral acceptability of the justification.

a finer reason for

Suggests a subtle but distinct improvement in the justification.

a more compelling ground for

Highlights the forceful and persuasive nature of the reason.

a more polished explanation for

Emphasizes the refinement and sophistication of the justification.

FAQs

How can I use "a better pretext for" in a sentence?

Use "a better pretext for" when you want to suggest that someone has found a more convincing or advantageous excuse for their actions. For example, "He needed "a better pretext for" avoiding the meeting than simply saying he was busy."

What's a good alternative to "a better pretext for"?

Depending on the specific context, you could use phrases like "a more convincing excuse for", "a stronger justification for", or "a more valid reason for".

Is it always negative to use the word 'pretext'?

While "pretext" often carries a negative connotation suggesting deception, it's not always inherently bad. It simply implies that the stated reason is not the real reason, which might be neutral or even necessary in certain situations. The phrase "a better pretext for" acknowledges this nuance.

What is the difference between "a reason for" and "a pretext for"?

A "reason for" is a genuine explanation for something, while "a pretext for" is an excuse or justification that is used to conceal the true reason or motive. "A better pretext for" means an improved version of that concealed justification.