excuse
word
/ɪkˈskjus/, /ɪkˈskjuz/
ik-SKYOOS
/ɪkˈskjuːz/
ik-SKYOOS
Definition
A reason or explanation given to justify a fault or an offense, or a way to politely get permission to do something or leave somewhere.
Usage & Nuances
Commonly used in polite or formal settings to ask for forgiveness or permission. Also used sarcastically to challenge someone's reason. Be careful not to confuse 'excuse' (noun/verb) with 'excuse me' (phrase for politeness).
Spanish: excusa - disculpaPortuguese (BR): desculpa - desculpadoPortuguese (PT): desculpa - desculpadoChinese (Simplified): 借口 - 原谅Chinese (Traditional): 藉口 - 原諒Hindi: बहाना - माफ़ करनाArabic: عذر - ذريعةBengali: অজুহাত - ক্ষমা করাRussian: оправдание - извинятьJapanese: 言い訳 - 許すVietnamese: lý do - tha thứKorean: 변명 - 용서하다Turkish: mazeret - affetmekUrdu: عذر - معاف کرناIndonesian: alasan - memaafkan
Example Sentences
Please excuse me for being late.
basic
Can I have an excuse to leave early today?
basic
She used traffic as an excuse for being late.
natural
He gave an excuse for missing the meeting.
basic
Don't try to find an excuse for your mistakes.
natural
He didn't even have an excuse when I asked why he was late.
natural