Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪkˈskjuːsəˌtɔːri/
KK: /ɪkˈskjuːsəˌtɔri/
Definition
Relating to or serving as an excuse; intended to justify or explain something.
Example
His excusatory remarks did little to alleviate the situation.
Conversation

I think her apology was a bit too excusatory for my taste.

Yeah, it felt like she was just trying to justify her actions instead of being sincere.

Exactly! A simple sorry would have sufficed without all the excuses.

Right? Sometimes it's better to just own up to mistakes.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
justificatory
defensive
explanatory
Antonyms
accusatory
blaming
condemning
Root Explanation
Excusatory → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out of or from) and "causare" (meaning to cause or make). The word refers to something that serves to excuse or justify an action, essentially making a case for it.
Memory Tip
Think of 'excusing' someone by 'making a case' for their actions — 'ex-' means out of, and 'causare' means to cause.
Visually Confused Words
expulsatory
recusator
executory
exclusory
exhumatory
execratory
excitatory
excavatory