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Pretext

/prˈiˌtɛkst/
C1
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(noun) A false, contrived, or assumed purpose or reason; a pretense.

He often uses the slightest thing as a pretext for a fight with anybody.
He made up a pretext for a fight with me.
CEFR Practice Quiz
He used the meeting as a ____ to gather information about the company's future plans.

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