under/on the pretense of

phrase

: using as a false reason or explanation (something that is used to hide the real purpose of something)

He called her under/on the pretense of asking about the homework assignment.

Examples of under/on the pretense of in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

All of these decisions are made under the pretense of prioritizing wins. — Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 9 Mar. 2026

Investigators say Wilson approached her under the pretense of needing directions. — Jane Lacroix, PEOPLE, 22 Jan. 2026

Collins and Cristaldi orchestrated an elaborate setup, under the pretense of filming a state-of-the-team interview about his career along with new ownership and the team’s new performance center under construction across the street from the arena. — Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 14 Jan. 2026

Estimates placed the number of fighters at roughly 800, with militants reportedly crossing the border under the pretense of religious pilgrimages before gathering at a base in Ahvaz and being dispatched to various regions. — Efrat Lachter, FOXNews.com, 8 Jan. 2026