pretext
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pretext
A reason that is only put forward in order to hide the true intention or the actual reason for an action.
Er kam unter dem Vorwand, sich ein Buch leihen zu wollen, aber eigentlich wollte er nur mit ihr reden.
He came under the pretext of wanting to borrow a book, but actually he just wanted to talk to her.
The word 'Vorwand' (pretext) is made up of 'vor' (in front of) and 'Wand' (wall). Figuratively, it describes a 'wall' that you put in front of the true intention in order to hide it. This image helps you understand the meaning of the word.
Seine Frage war nur ein Vorwand, um ein Gespräch anzufangen.
His question was just a pretext to start a conversation.
'Vorwand' (pretext) is almost always used with the preposition 'unter' (under). The fixed expression is 'unter dem Vorwand' (under the pretext). It is often followed by an infinitive construction with 'zu'.
Sie verließ die Party unter dem Vorwand, müde zu sein.
She left the party under the pretext of being tired.
Common verbs used with 'Vorwand' (pretext) are 'einen Vorwand suchen' (to look for a pretext), 'einen Vorwand finden' (to find a pretext), or to use something 'als Vorwand benutzen' (as a pretext).
Er suchte nach einem Vorwand, um sie anrufen zu können.
He looked for a pretext to be able to call her.
excuse
Ausrede and Vorwand can both be fabricated reasons. An Ausrede usually serves to excuse misbehavior or a failure to do something. A Vorwand, by contrast, conceals the true intention behind an action and can be given before the action takes place.
Tom sagte das Treffen unter dem Vorwand von Arbeit ab, wollte aber heimlich verreisen.
Tom canceled the meeting on the pretext of work, but secretly wanted to go on a trip.
Nach dem verpassten Treffen benutzte Tom seine Arbeit als Ausrede.
After missing the meeting, Tom used his work as an excuse.
