a pretext to do something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a pretext to do something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a reason or excuse that is not the real reason for an action, often implying deceit or insincerity. Example: "He used the meeting as a pretext to discuss his personal agenda rather than the project at hand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"This may be used, may be manipulated, used as a pretext to do something," he said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Washington, he declared, wants a "pretext to do in Iraq and Syria what it already does in Pakistan — bomb anywhere without authorization".

The New Yorker

He added the US was seeking seeking a "pretext to do in Iraq and Syria what it already does in Pakistan - bomb anywhere without authorisation".

BBC

All expressed a desire to do something.

The New York Times

Always have a motivation to do something.

WikiHow

A desire not to do something.

WikiHow

Code a Java program to do something.

WikiHow

— to do something just a little shocking.

The New York Times

"So his speech was a pretext for something else – a pretext to fight peaceful protesters who want Morsi to come back".

The Guardian

"Don't use this as a pretext to pressure and threaten Iran".

The New York Times

MARCH THE MODERN BEETHOVEN You don't need much of a pretext to sell a Beethoven festival to your marketing department, especially at the New York Philharmonic.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "a pretext to do something" when you want to suggest that the stated reason for an action is not the real or only reason, often implying a hidden motive or agenda.

Common error

Avoid using "a pretext to do something" when you simply mean a justification or valid reason. "Pretext" implies a degree of deception or concealment, while "justification" implies legitimacy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a pretext to do something" functions as a connector, specifically indicating purpose. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It introduces an action that is ostensibly done for a stated reason, but the real reason is different, often implying deception.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a pretext to do something" serves to express that a given reason for an action is not the real one. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in English. It's commonly used in contexts like news and media to suggest hidden motives. The phrase carries a negative connotation, implying that the stated reason is deceptive. Alternatives include phrases like "an excuse to act" or "a cover for an action", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. When writing, make sure to use "a pretext to do something" only when you intend to imply deception or a hidden agenda, and not when you simply mean a legitimate justification.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a false reason for intervening

Explicitly states that the reason is not genuine and aims to influence a situation.

a cover for an action

Highlights the act of concealing the real reason for the action.

a guise for activity

Implies a deceptive appearance used to conceal the true nature of the activity.

a facade for undertaking

Indicates a false front or appearance to mask the real purpose.

an excuse to act

Focuses more on justification rather than a hidden motive.

a subterfuge to execute

Highlights the use of deceit to carry out a plan or action.

a smoke screen to operate

Suggests a deceptive tactic to hide actions or intentions.

a justification for action

Emphasizes the act of providing reasons to support an action but might not imply hidden motives.

a ruse to proceed

Emphasizes the deceptive nature of the tactic used to move forward.

an alibi for engaging

Highlights providing an explanation to avoid blame or suspicion.

FAQs

What does "a pretext to do something" mean?

It means using a stated reason that isn't the real one for taking an action. It often implies a hidden motive or a deceptive intention.

How can I use "a pretext to do something" in a sentence?

Example: "The company's stated reason for the merger was efficiency, but it was really "a pretext to do something" else: eliminate competition."

What are some alternatives to "a pretext to do something"?

You can use phrases like "an excuse to act", "a cover for an action", or "a guise for activity" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a negative connotation associated with "a pretext to do something"?

Yes, the phrase generally carries a negative connotation. It suggests that the stated reason is not the true reason and that someone is being disingenuous or manipulative.