pretense
Prophasis denotes a claimed reason or outward show that can conceal another aim, and sometimes an excuse.
The attested use most often presents a stated reason or public display that masks another purpose: sailors use it to cover an attempted escape, long prayers accompany exploitation, and proclamation may occur in contrast to truth. In John 15:22, it denotes an excuse that is no longer available for sin.
Senses in use
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A stated cover for another purpose · dominant
The dative singular form is used for an outward rationale or display contrasted with what is actually occurring. In Acts 27:30 the APB renders the sailors as lowering the lifeboat “under the pretense” of setting anchors while seeking to flee; in Mark 12:40 and Luke 20:47 it renders long prayers made “for a pretense” alongside devouring widows' houses. In 1 Thessalonians 2:5 it is denied as a cover “for greed,” while Philippians 1:18 places it in contrast with truth in the proclamation of Christ.
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An excuse for sin · rare
In John 15:22, the accusative singular form occurs in the statement that those addressed now have no excuse for their sin after the speaker's coming and speaking. The APB renders the clause “they have no excuse for their sin.”
In the Anselm Project Bible: The APB uses “pretext” in 1 Thessalonians 2:5, “under the pretense” in Acts 27:30, “for a pretense” in Mark 12:40 and Luke 20:47, and contrasts “pretense” with “truth” in Philippians 1:18. In John 15:22 it uses “excuse”; these are translation renderings of whole clauses.