Noun + にかこつけて

[Using ... as an excuse/pretext]

Connection: Noun + にかこつけて

Usage: Indicates using something as a pretext or excuse to do what one really wants to do. The stated reason is not the true motivation. Carries a critical or disapproving nuance — the speaker sees through the excuse.

Examples:

出張にかこつけて、観光を楽しんでいる。(Using the business trip as an excuse, he's enjoying sightseeing.)

病気にかこつけて、仕事をサボっているだけだ。(He's just using illness as an excuse to skip work.)

接待にかこつけて、高級レストランで食事をしている。(Using client entertainment as a pretext, they dine at expensive restaurants.)