Which of the following words is closest in meaning to “Pretext”?

Pretext means a false reason given to hide the real one; an excuse.

• Correct answer - excuse: it has the same meaning as Pretext.
• respect: admiration for someone - wrong, it does not mean the same as Pretext.
• strength: physical or mental power - wrong, it does not mean the same as Pretext.
• real reason: the true cause - wrong, it does not mean the same as Pretext.