Excuse - Wikipedia-style Article

Excuse

Definition

Excuse is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a reason or explanation given to justify a fault or avoid blame. As a verb, it means to forgive or overlook a fault or to provide a justification for an action.

Parts of Speech

Noun
Verb

Pronunciation

American English

IPA Pronunciation (noun): /ɪkˈskjus/
Respelling: ik-SKYOOS
IPA Pronunciation (verb): /ɪkˈskjuz/
Respelling: ik-SKYOOS

British English

IPA Pronunciation (noun): /ɪkˈskjuːs/
Respelling: ik-SKYOOS
IPA Pronunciation (verb): /ɪkˈskjuːz/
Respelling: ik-SKYOOS

Etymology

The word "excuse" originates from the Latin "excusare," meaning "to free from blame," formed from "ex-" (out of) and "causa" (cause, reason). It entered Middle English in the 13th century through Old French as "excuser," carrying the same meaning of pardoning or justifying a fault.

Derivatives

Excusable (adjective)
Excusably (adverb)
Excusatory (adjective)
Unexcused (adjective)
Excused (adjective)

Synonyms

Justification
Explanation
Reason

Antonyms

Accusation
Condemnation
Blame

Usage

The word "excuse" can be used to justify or pardon a fault or to give a reason for not doing something. For example, "He gave an excuse for being late" or "Please excuse the mess in my room."

Related Terms

Justify: To provide a valid reason for an action.
Pardon: To forgive or excuse a wrongdoing.
Apology: An expression of regret or excuse for an action.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

A reason given to justify or defend a fault: An explanation provided to reduce blame or responsibility.
- Example: "His excuse for being late was traffic."
A pretext to avoid something: An explanation used to avoid a duty or responsibility.
- Example: "She made an excuse to leave early."

Verb

To forgive or overlook a fault: To grant forgiveness or pardon for an action or mistake.
- Example: "Please excuse my interruption."
To provide a reason or justification: To explain an action to mitigate responsibility.
- Example: "She tried to excuse her behavior."