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

“The Authority’s apparent repeated use of misleading ridership projections, despite longstanding warnings from experts, raises serious questions about whether funds were allocated under false pretenses,” Comer wrote.

From Los Angeles Times

She could use some time alone, and Glenn could use a forced change of scenery — even if it’s under false pretenses.

From Salon

“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

Divorced and seemingly otherwise alone — she thinks of her housekeeper as “my friend” — she’s connecting under false pretenses with a teenage boy she gave up as a baby for adoption.

From Los Angeles Times

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