Inklingo
← Dictionary

pretexto

preh-TEKS-tohpɾeˈteksto

“pretexto” means “excuse” in Spanish (a reason given to justify an action or avoid doing something).

excuse

Also: pretext
NounmB1
A child hiding a broken vase behind their back while offering a single flower to their parent.

📝 In Action

Siempre busca un pretexto para no ir al gimnasio.

A2

He always looks for an excuse not to go to the gym.

Usó el tráfico como pretexto por llegar tarde.

B1

He used the traffic as a pretext for arriving late.

No me vengas con pretextos; sé que no querías venir.

B2

Don't come to me with excuses; I know you didn't want to come.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • excusa (excuse)
  • justificación (justification)

Antonyms

Common Collocations

  • bajo el pretexto de – under the pretext of
  • inventar un pretexto – to make up an excuse
  • servir de pretexto – to serve as an excuse

Idioms & Expressions

  • poner pretextos – to make excuses or delay something by giving false reasons

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "pretexto" in Spanish:

excuse→pretext→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: pretexto

Question 1 of 3

Which verb is most commonly used with 'pretexto' when someone is avoiding the truth?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
pretextar(to claim as an excuse) — Verb
texto(text) — Noun
contexto(context) — Noun
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼

From the Latin 'praetextum', which originally meant an ornament or a 'covering' on a garment. Over time, it evolved to mean a story used to cover up the truth.

First recorded: 15th century

Cognates (Related words)

English: pretextItalian: pretesto

💡 Master Spanish

Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'pretexto' different from 'excusa'?

They are very similar. However, 'excusa' is more neutral and can be a legitimate apology. 'Pretexto' often implies the reason is a bit suspicious or fake.

How do I say 'I have no excuse'?

You can say 'No tengo ningún pretexto' or 'No tengo excusa'.

Is it a formal or informal word?

It is neutral. You can use it with your friends, but it's also perfectly fine to use in literature or the news.