Crossword Genius

False justification before writing? (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

pretext

'false justification' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'before writing?' is the wordplay.
'before' becomes 'pre'.
'writing?' becomes 'text' (text is a kind of writing**).
'pre'+'text'='PRETEXT'

(Other definitions for pretext that I've seen before include "Specious excuse" , "Fictitious reason in order to conceal the real one" , "Stalking-horse" , "Ostensible justification" , "Ostensible motive" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app