smokescreen
Translation
smokescreen
Examples
The warship created a smokescreen to hide its retreat.
The warship created a smokescreen to hide its retreat.
His apology was just a smokescreen for his real plans.
His apology was just a smokescreen for his real plans.
Grammar Patterns
a smokescreen for (sth.) something intended to conceal The announcement was a smokescreen for the company's problems.
Similar Words
Synonyms: decoy, pretext, cover-up, ruse
Etymology
From 'smoke' + 'screen'. Literally a screen made of smoke.
Memory Tips
Imagine a magician using a puff of smoke (a smokescreen) to hide a trick. This helps remember both the literal and figurative meanings.