false pretenses

American  

plural noun

1. a deliberate misrepresentation of facts, as to obtain title to money or property.

2. the use of such misrepresentation.

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Etymology

Origin of false pretenses

First recorded in 1750–60

Example Sentences

“Not every spy is to your flavor of monogamy,” Kathryn tells George when he organizes a dinner party to begin sniffing out the mole under false pretenses.

From Salon • Mar. 14, 2025

This is not the first time in recent weeks that authorities have arrested people accused of trying to enter evacuation zones under false pretenses.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 20, 2025

In 2018, Daibes was charged by federal prosecutors in Newark with obtaining loans under false pretenses from a bank that he owned.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 22, 2023

Analysts say those ships often transfer their oil to other ships, that then sell the crude oil under false pretenses.

From Washington Times • Jul. 12, 2023

She had no compunctions about the lie and getting the doll under false pretenses.

From "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" by Betty Smith