cover
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cover
A pretext or disguise used to hide true intentions, goals, or activities. Often used in the phrase 'unter dem Deckmantel' (under the cover).
Unter dem Deckmantel der Freundschaft versuchte er, an vertrauliche Informationen zu gelangen.
Under the cover of friendship, he tried to obtain confidential information.
The word is made up of 'Decke' (blanket/cover) and 'Mantel' (coat/cloak). Figuratively, it is therefore a cloak that covers or hides something. This image helps you understand the figurative meaning of hiding intentions.
Die Spendenaktion war nur ein Deckmantel für seine illegalen Geschäfte.
The fundraising campaign was only a cover for his illegal business dealings.
'Deckmantel' (cover) is almost always used in the fixed expression 'unter dem Deckmantel von etwas' (under the cover of something). After the preposition 'von', the dative is used.
Unter dem Deckmantel der Kunstfreiheit wurden provokante Thesen verbreitet.
Under the cover of artistic freedom, provocative claims were spread.
The pretext that serves as a 'Deckmantel' (cover) is often an abstract, positive-sounding word. Typical examples are 'unter dem Deckmantel der Freundschaft' (under the cover of friendship), 'der Anonymität' (of anonymity), 'der Wissenschaft' (of science), or 'der Hilfe' (of help).
Er nutzte den Deckmantel der Anonymität, um online Hass zu verbreiten.
He used the cover of anonymity to spread hate online.
facade
Fassade is an outward appearance that hides true feelings or intentions. Deckmantel is more of a pretext under which someone conceals certain actions or goals. Use Fassade for a deceptive impression, and Deckmantel for an apparent justification for an action.
Unter dem Deckmantel freundlicher Hilfsbereitschaft versuchte er, Zugang zu vertraulichen Informationen zu erhalten.
Under the cover of friendly assistance, he tried to gain access to confidential information.
Seine freundliche Hilfsbereitschaft war nur eine Fassade, hinter der er seine eigennützigen Ziele verbarg.
His friendly willingness to help was merely a facade behind which he concealed his self-serving goals.
