excuse
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ɪkˈskjuːs/
KK: /ɪkˈskjus/
noun
Definition
A reason or explanation given to justify a fault or to obtain forgiveness for a mistake or absence.
Example
She gave a valid excuse for being late to the meeting.
Conversation
I can't believe I forgot to submit my assignment on time.
That's rough! Do you have an excuse for your teacher?
I was thinking of saying my computer crashed last night.
That could work, but maybe be honest; teachers appreciate that.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
justification
apology
reason
Antonyms
blame
accusation
fault
transitive verb
Definition
To allow someone to leave or to forgive someone for a mistake or offense.
Example
She excused her friend for being late to the meeting.
Tense Forms
Past: excused
Past Participle: excused
Conversation
I’m really sorry for being late to the meeting.
No worries! I totally understand; things happen.
Thanks! I just hope they can excuse my tardiness this time.
Root Explanation
Excuse → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out of) and "causa" (meaning cause or reason). The word "excuse" originally referred to the act of freeing someone from a cause or reason for blame or fault.
Memory Tip
Think of 'getting out of' something ('ex-') by providing a 'reason' ('causa') — that's how you remember that an excuse is a reason to avoid blame.
Visually Confused Words
recuse
excise
unexcused
exclusive