false pretences

plural noun

1. criminal law a former name for deception See obtaining by deception
2. a similar misrepresentation used to obtain anything, such as trust or affection (esp in the phrase under false pretences )

Example Sentences

They too say that when they arrived the jobs seemed non-existent and believe that they were hired under false pretences.

From BBC

The couple alleges it was done under false pretences.

From BBC

Police say Amal's boyfriend Ramadan Inuwa is wanted on charges of obtaining money by false pretences and is still at large.

From BBC

Ministers say they "strongly condemn" offering foreign care workers employment "under false pretences".

From BBC

Some of the Zambians who are being held have been charged with espionage and obtaining money on false pretences.

From BBC