alibi
word
Definition
An alibi is proof or a statement that shows someone was somewhere else when a crime or bad event happened, so they could not have done it. It can also be used more generally for an excuse or reason to avoid blame.
Usage & Nuances
Most commonly used in police, legal, crime, and mystery contexts. Common patterns are 'have an alibi', 'provide an alibi', and 'a solid/weak alibi'. In everyday informal English, it can jokingly mean an excuse, but the crime-related meaning is still the main one.
Example Sentences
I need a better alibi than 'my phone died' if I want anyone to believe me.
natural
The police asked if he had an alibi.
basic
She gave her sister an alibi for the night of the robbery.
basic
His alibi was easy to check.
basic
Come on, 'traffic' can't be your alibi for being late every single day.
natural
If his alibi falls apart, the detectives will bring him in again.
natural