excuses

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

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.

Appeared in the October 17, 2025, print edition as 'Vance’s Bad Excuses for Young Republicans'.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 16, 2025

While serving as New York State's de facto first lady, she pushed for a "No Excuses" bill to improve early breast cancer detection access and care, including extending testing center hours.

From Salon • Aug. 19, 2024

Excuses don’t hold up against the Pac-12 stalwart Bruins, however, who, only two years removed from a national championship game appearance, showed why they’re still one of the best teams in the nation.

From Washington Times • Dec. 14, 2022

“No Excuses is about being intentional in hiring Black professionals,” Salisbury says.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 19, 2021

Excuses, alibis, and wild cover-up stories chased each other around Harry’s brain, each more feeble than the last.

From "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" by J.K. Rowling