Basic Details
Word: Excuse
Part of Speech: Noun and verb
Meaning: A reason or explanation given to justify something; to seek forgiveness for a fault or an error.
Synonyms: Justification, explanation, alibi
Antonyms: Blame, accusation, imposition
Idioms and Phrases
- Excuse my French: This phrase is used humorously when someone uses a swear word or bad language. Example: "I was so frustrated, I shouted, 'This is ridiculous!' Excuse my French!"
- No excuse: Used to indicate that there is no justification for something. Example: "Being late to school has no excuse; everyone needs to be on time."
Usage Examples
Example 1: She offered a sincere excuse for why she couldn't attend the party last weekend.
Example 2: The teacher asked for an excuse for the student's absence from class.
Example 3: He made an excuse about being stuck in traffic to explain why he was late.
Fun Fact
The word "excuse" originates from the Latin word "excusare," which means "to free from a charge" or "to defend." It has been used in English since the late 14th century!
Famous Quote
"The greater the power, the more dangerous the abuse." Edmund Burke
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "excuse" mean?
a) A type of food
b) A reason or explanation
c) A kind of tool
d) A part of a plant
Answer: b) A reason or explanation
2. Which of these is a synonym of "excuse"?
a) Justification
b) Accusation
c) Demand
d) Attack
Answer: a) Justification
3. Which sentence uses "excuse" correctly?
a) He made an excuse for not doing his homework.
b) She will excuse the flower that she bought.
c) I will excuse my shoes after school.
d) The excuse is in the cupboard.
Answer: a) He made an excuse for not doing his homework.
4. Which phrase means that no reason is valid?
a) Excuse my French
b) No excuse
c) A horse of a different colour
d) A stitch in time saves nine
Answer: b) No excuse
5. What is the opposite of "excuse"?
a) Blame
b) Help
c) Praise
d) Support
Answer: a) Blame
