Definition

Not having received permission or justification for an absence or mistake.

Example

He had an unexcused absence from school yesterday.

Conversation

Did you hear about Mark's latest absence from class?

Yeah, I heard it was unexcused this time.

I wonder if he's going to get in trouble for it.

Probably, especially since he had a few unexcused ones last month.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unexcused → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "excused" (from Latin "excusare", meaning to free from blame or to justify). The word "unexcused" means not freed from blame or justification, typically referring to an absence or behavior that lacks a valid reason.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') having a valid reason to be 'freed from blame' ('excused') — that's why unexcused means lacking a valid excuse.

Visually Confused Words