Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

use-an-excuse

Phrase
/juːz ən ɪkˈskjuːs/
Definition
To provide a reason or justification for not doing something, often seen as a way to avoid responsibility.
Examples
  • She decided to use an excuse for her late arrival, claiming the traffic was terrible.
  • He always tries to use an excuse when he doesn’t complete his assignments on time.
  • Rather than facing the issue, he chose to use an excuse to avoid the conversation.
Meaning
The act of making an excuse to explain or justify one’s behavior or decision, typically to evade accountability.
Synonyms
  • Justify
  • Defend
  • Rationalize
  • Alibi
  • Account for