〜にかこつけて

Pattern: 〜にかこつけて
Level: N2
Meaning: Using X as a pretext/excuse to do Y.
Attaches to: Noun
Example: 取材にかこつけて、あちこち旅行している。
Easily confused with: 〜を口実に. Similar meaning, but にかこつけて often implies using a slightly illegitimate or selfish excuse.