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Excuse: meaning, definitions and examples

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excuse

 

[ ɪkˈskjuːz ]

Noun / Verb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Noun

common

An explanation or justification for one's actions or behavior.

Synonyms

explanation, justification, reason

Examples of usage

  • I had to make up some excuse for being late again.
  • She accepted his excuse for forgetting their anniversary.
Context #2 | Noun

formal

A polite phrase used in various social contexts to ask for something or to get someone's attention.

Synonyms

I beg your pardon, apology, pardon

Examples of usage

  • Excuse me, can I ask you a question?
  • Excuse me, could you please move your car?
Context #3 | Verb

informal

To forgive or overlook a fault or offense.

Synonyms

forgive, overlook, pardon

Examples of usage

  • I'll excuse your behavior this time, but it better not happen again.
  • Please excuse my friend's rudeness; he didn't mean to offend.

Translations

Translations of the word "excuse" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desculpa

🇮🇳 माफी

🇩🇪 Entschuldigung

🇮🇩 maaf

🇺🇦 вибачення

🇵🇱 przeprosiny

🇯🇵 謝罪 (shazai)

🇫🇷 excuse

🇪🇸 excusa

🇹🇷 özür

🇰🇷 변명 (byeonmyeong)

🇸🇦 عذر (ʿudhr)

🇨🇿 omluva

🇸🇰 ospravedlnenie

🇨🇳 借口 (jièkǒu)

🇸🇮 opravičilo

🇮🇸 afsökun

🇰🇿 кешірім

🇬🇪 ბოდიში (bodishi)

🇦🇿 bağışlama

🇲🇽 excusa

Word origin

The word 'excuse' originated from the Latin word 'excusare', meaning 'to free from blame'. Over time, it evolved to encompass both the idea of providing a reason for an action and asking for forgiveness or permission. The use of 'excuse' in its various forms has become an integral part of social interactions, allowing individuals to explain themselves, seek attention, or seek forgiveness.

See also: excusing, inexcusable, inexcusably.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,236, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.