How to pronounce pretext
Say it like PREE-tekst. Pretext has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (PREE).
- PREE
- tekst
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Pretext pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- PREESay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ee" in see.
- tekstGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
American vs British pronunciation of pretext
American and British speakers say pretext in essentially the same way: /ˈpriˌtɛkst/ in the US and /ˈpriːtɛkst/ in the UK.
British respelling: PREE-tekst.
What does pretext mean?
- A false, contrived, or assumed purpose or reason; a pretense.“The reporter called the company on the pretext of trying to resolve a consumer complaint.”
- To employ a pretext, which involves using a false or contrived purpose for soliciting the gain of something else.“The spy obtained his phone records using possibly-illegal pretexting methods.”
Where does pretext come from?
From Latin praetextum (“an ornament, etc., wrought in front, a pretense”), neuter of praetextus, past participle of praetexere (“to weave before, fringe or border, allege”).
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying pretext
How do you pronounce pretext?
Say PREE-tekst. The American pronunciation is /ˈpriˌtɛkst/. In British English it is /ˈpriːtɛkst/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in pretext?
Pretext has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (PREE). Broken into parts: PREE · tekst.
Do Americans and Brits say pretext the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈpriˌtɛkst/ and the British form is /ˈpriːtɛkst/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.