excuse
UK: ɪkˈskjuːz | US: ɪkˈskjuːs
v. to justify or forgive a fault or offense
v. to release someone from a duty or requirement
n. a reason or explanation given to justify a fault or avoid blame
excuse = ex<out> + cuse<blame>
- ex: Latin prefix meaning "out" or "away."
- cuse: Derived from Latin causa (blame, accusation), later evolving into Old French cuser (to accuse).
Etymology Origin:
The word "excuse" originated from Latin excusare ("to free from blame"), combining ex- (out) and causa (blame). It entered English via Old French excuser, retaining the core idea of removing or justifying blame. The dual verb/noun usage reflects its function in both action (forgiving) and explanation (reason).
She tried to excuse her lateness with a story about traffic.
The teacher excused him from the exam due to illness.
"No excuse is acceptable for such behavior," the manager said.
He mumbled an excuse and hurried away.
Can you excuse me for a moment? I need to take this call.