pretext Synonyms

pretense semblance guise stalking-horse excuse disguise pretence pork pie stratagem story ostensible reason false excuse simulation show sham alleged reason ruse reason rationalization rationale preter- pretension subterfuge trick blag red herring window dressing camouflage cover-up fig leaf smokescreen apologia cleanup evasiveness grounds excuses vindication veil motivation pretendingly advocation evasion dominos disguisement defense deception cover coloring cause call