"Pretext for" can be explained in English as a reason or an excuse that is given as a covering or justification for something, but is not the actual or true reason. It refers to an artificial or fabricated cause that serves as a facade to conceal the real motive or purpose behind an action or statement. For instance, someone might use a minor disagreement as a "pretext for" ending a relationship, when the real reason is a deeper, perhaps more complex or uncomfortable issue.
