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Definitions

excuse

[ik-skyooz, ik-skyoos] / ɪkˈskyuz, ɪkˈskyus /
NOUN
reason, explanation
Synonyms
STRONGEST
alibi apology justification pretext rationalization substitute trick
STRONG
cleanup cover defense disguise evasion expedient extenuation grounds jive makeshift mitigation plea regrets routine semblance shift song stall stopgap story subterfuge vindication whitewash
WEAK
come-off cop-out cover story coverup fish story song and dance why and wherefore
Antonyms
STRONG
permanent
VERB
forgive, absolve; justify
Synonyms
STRONGEST
acquit condone defend exempt exonerate explain forgive indulge let go pardon relieve spare tolerate
STRONG
alibi appease clear cover discharge exculpate extenuate free liberate mitigate overlook pretext purge rationalize release remit reprieve shrive vindicate whitewash
WEAK
apologize for bear with dispense from exempt from give absolution grant amnesty let off make allowances for pass over plead ignorance shrug off take rap for wink at
Antonyms
STRONGEST
accuse blame censure charge condemn damn hurt punish sentence
STRONG
aggravate hold incite irritate keep limit maintain prevent restrain reveal

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

She argues that too often we use expert prediction as an excuse not to think for ourselves, deferring to impressive-looking charts and graphs as a form of anxiety relief.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 21, 2026

But just because Soderbergh jumping at AI could be seen from a mile away doesn’t make it any less disappointing, nor does it excuse his reluctance to thoughtfully engage with others’ criticisms about the technology.

From Salon • Apr. 17, 2026

Whether the technology is a reason or an excuse may be besides the point.

From Barron's • Apr. 15, 2026

"Now it feels more offensive because I feel like there is no excuse any more," Mali said.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

At least there she’d have an excuse for not knowing things.

From Anya and the Nightingale by Sofiya Pasternack

Vocabulary lists containing excuse

"Romeo and Juliet" by William Shakespeare, Act III

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"The War of the Wall" by Toni Cade Bambara

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"The House on Mango Street" and "The Road Not Taken"

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!