excuse

ex-cuse · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A reason or explanation given to justify a fault or offense.

  2. 2.

    A pretext; a reason used to avoid doing something.

  3. 3.

    To forgive or pardon (someone) for a fault or offense.

  4. 4.

    To release someone from an obligation or duty.

  5. 5.

    To serve as a reason for; to justify.

Forms

plural: excuses

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    excuse me — used to apologize or get attention
  • •
    make excuses — to give reasons to justify oneself
  • •
    there's no excuse for — something cannot be justified
  • •
    if you'll excuse me — polite way to take leave
  • •
    excuse my French — apologizing for swearing

Related words

Antonyms: accusation, blame
See also: excused, excuses, forgive, pardon
Synonyms: alibi, explanation, justification, pretext, reason

Etymology

From Latin "excusare" (to excuse, apologize), from "ex-" (out) + "causa" (accusation, cause). Entered English in the 13th century through Old French "escuser."