false pretenses

plural noun

1. a deliberate misrepresentation of facts, as to obtain title to money or property.
2. the use of such misrepresentation.

Word History and Origins

Origin of false pretenses¹

First recorded in 1750–60

Example Sentences

According to prosecutors, Smith-Griffin orchestrated “a deliberate and calculated scheme to deceive investors in AllHere Education, Inc., inflating the company’s financials to secure millions of dollars under false pretenses.”

From Los Angeles Times

Thompson’s family insists he’s a political pawn who was dragged into an international conflict under false pretenses.

From Seattle Times

His arrogance and boasting failed to impress the much younger woman he had lured to his room under false pretenses.

From Salon

And then there are operations like EDMC, which federal officials say pushed enrollees deeply into debt under false pretenses.

From Los Angeles Times

“On April 13, 2023, plaintiff was terminated under false pretenses,” the suit says.

From Los Angeles Times