Excuse ( noun , verb )

(As a noun)

Excuse ( noun )

1. A reason or explanation given to justify a fault or offense.
2. A reason given to avoid or postpone something.
3. A mitigating circumstance or justification for an action.

Origin:

Middle english: from old french escuser, from latin excusare, from ex- "out" + causa "cause".

Examples:

1. He offered no excuse for his behavior.
2. She had an excuse for not finishing her work.
3. The excuse he gave for being late was not credible.
4. He used the traffic as an excuse for being late.
5. I have no excuse for not having done my homework.

(As a verb)

Excuse ( verb )

1. A reason or explanation given to justify a fault or offense.
2. A reason given to avoid or postpone something.
3. A mitigating circumstance or justification for an action.

Origin:

Middle english: from old french escuser, from latin excusare, from ex- "out" + causa "cause".

Examples:

1. He offered no excuse for his behavior.
2. She had an excuse for not finishing her work.
3. The excuse he gave for being late was not credible.
4. He used the traffic as an excuse for being late.
5. I have no excuse for not having done my homework.