Nothing so simple as a single word should ever be put forth as an excuse.
ex·cuse
noun
\ikˈskyüs, ek-\
plural -s
1
: the act of excusing (as by apologizing, exculpating, pardoning, or releasing) : acquittal, release, absolution, justification<pleading so wisely in excuse of it — Shakespeare>
2
a : something offered as grounds for being excused : a justifying explanation of a fault or defect<what’s your excuse for being late this morning?><he made his ill health an excuse for everything> b excuses plural : an expression of regret for failure to do or participate in something often conveyed through a third party<make my excuses to your cousin, I’m sorry to miss her tea> c : a note of explanation (as from a parent or teacher) concerning the absence of an individual (as from class or work)
3
a : something that serves to excuse : anything that justifies or extenuates a fault or defect<I suppose his youth is an excuse for his flighty ways><forgetfulness is no excuse for bad manners> b : a purpose or use that justifies : justification, reason<such loveliness is enough excuse for being>
4
: an inferior example or instance of a kind specified<finally turned in a blotted excuse for a composition><this rattletrap is a poor excuse for a car>
Origin of EXCUSE
Middle English, from Middle French, from excuser
First Known Use: 14th century (sense 1)
Related to EXCUSE
Synonyms:
alibi, apology, defense, justification, plea, reason
more
See Synonym Discussion at apology
Pronunciation Symbols