excuse
US /ɪkˈskjuːz/
UK /ɪkˈskjuːz/
1.
a reason or explanation given to justify a fault or offense
:
•
He made a lame excuse for being late.
•
What's your excuse for not finishing the report?
1.
2.
try to lessen the seriousness of (a fault or offense); justify
:
•
Don't try to excuse your bad behavior.
•
Nothing can excuse such cruelty.