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Showing results for excuse. Search instead for excusar.
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.

But good — even great — outcomes do not excuse a process that does not always seem to respect your time.

From MarketWatch • May 1, 2026

"I think the fact that the Pacific is far away cannot be an excuse," Nikki Reisch, from the Center for International Environmental Law, told AFP in Santa Marta.

From Barron's • Apr. 30, 2026

States have no excuse for not performing routine check-ups on providers.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 29, 2026

The jury agreed that these allegations were a manufactured excuse to cover up unlawful retaliation.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2026

Samir patted me on the head, as though to excuse my cowardice.

From "The Many Assassinations of Samir, the Seller of Dreams" by Daniel Nayeri

Vocabulary lists containing excuse

"Romeo and Juliet" by William Shakespeare, Act III

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

"The War of the Wall" by Toni Cade Bambara

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

"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!