Excuse: meaning, definitions and examples

When you want to give a reason for not doing something, often seen as weak or unconvincing. Can have a negative connotation.

• I forgot to do my homework because my dog ate it. What a terrible excuse!

When you want to defend or prove that an action, decision, or idea is reasonable or acceptable.

• He provided a strong justification for his actions during the meeting.

When you want to express a cause or motive for something that has happened or been done.

• The reason she was late is because her car broke down.

When you want to make something clear or understandable. Used to provide details or reasons.

• The teacher gave a detailed explanation of the science project.

Used when explaining a reason for something that happened, often when justifying or rationalizing behavior. Can also be used to politely interrupt or leave.

• I'm sorry I'm late; traffic was terrible. That's my excuse.
• Excuse me, can I have a moment of your time?

Used more commonly in British English as a polite way to ask someone to repeat something. It can also mean to forgive someone officially for something they've done wrong, especially in legal contexts.

• Pardon, could you say that again?
• The president granted him a pardon, absolving his crimes.

Used when you acknowledge that you have done something wrong and you want to express regret or ask for forgiveness. It is more formal and sincere.

• I owe you an apology for forgetting your birthday.
• She issued a public apology for her comments.

Used primarily to ask someone to repeat what they said because you did not hear or understand it. It can also be used to politely disagree or express offense.

• I beg your pardon, could you repeat the question?
• I beg your pardon, but I don't think that's correct.

Can also be used to politely request someone's attention.

• Excuse me, do you know where the library is? Excuse me, could you pass the salt?

Used to express that you no longer feel angry or resentful toward someone for something they have done.

• I forgive you for breaking the vase
• Can you forgive me for my mistake?

Used in formal or legal situations to express that someone is officially being forgiven for a crime or wrongdoing. Pardon can also be used in everyday language to politely respond to someone or ask them to repeat something.

• The governor decided to pardon the prisoner
• Pardon me, could you repeat that?

Often used when you choose to ignore someone’s mistake or fault rather than confront or punish them. It can imply a conscious decision to let something go.

• I'll overlook your tardiness this time
• Sometimes it's best to overlook minor errors