Excuse vs excuse

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Grammarist

Excuse and excuse are two words that are spelled identically but are pronounced differently and have different meanings, which makes them heteronyms. We will examine the definitions of the words excuse and excuse, where these words came from, and a few examples of their use in sentences.

Excuse (ek SKYOOS) is a noun that means a justification for an action, a reason for doing something, a defense. The noun excuse is derived from the Old French escuser. The plural form is excuses.

Excuse (ek SKYOOZ) is a verb that means to pardon, to mitigate responsibility or blame, or to forgive an offense. The verb excuse is derived from the Latin excusare, which means to apologize. Related words are excuses, excused, excusing.

Examples

If you’ve been looking for an excuse to break from those thigh-high platform boots, the time is now. (Daily Californian)

First Minister Arlene Foster has said she will not tolerate an “excuse to damage grammar schools and to end academic selection” from parties “using the executive to give them a platform”. (Belfast Newsletter)

He then stood up and folded hands as he cried and asked Salman to excuse him for two minutes. (Hindustan Times)

McManamon said even though Avila is a person of color, “that does not excuse him from poor behavior.” (Ventura County Star)