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Vorwand

pretext, excuse

noun FOR-vahnt Rare
Communication Expressions

Usage Note

Vorwand is a false reason given to conceal the real motive; unter einem Vorwand ('under a pretext') and als Vorwand dienen ('to serve as a pretext') are the standard collocations.

Examples

"Er benutzte die Kälte als Vorwand, um zu Hause zu bleiben."

Natural Translation

He used the cold as a pretext to stay at home.

Literal Translation

He used the cold as pretext, to at-home to stay.

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