excuse

An excuse is a reason or explanation offered to justify a fault or lapse, to mitigate blame, or to seek pardon. It can function as a justification, a pretext, or an apology in everyday discourse. People use excuses to account for missed obligations, mistakes, or delays, and the perceived credibility of an excuse depends on its relevance and plausibility.

Etymology: The word traces to Middle English from Old French escuser, from Latin excusare, meaning to uphold one's cause or remove blame. The verb and noun forms share this lineage.

Distinctions: An excuse differs from an apology or a justification. An apology expresses regret and asks for forgiveness; a justification argues that the action was morally or legally permissible. An excuse acknowledges the act while seeking to reduce blame, often by citing circumstances.

Legal context: In law, an excuse or exculpatory defense can negate liability by negating culpable mental state or capacity rather than denying the wrongfulness of the act. Common examples include infancy, insanity, duress, and, in some systems, involuntary intoxication or coercion. Not all claimed excuses are accepted; credibility and jurisdiction matter.

Social and cognitive aspects: In everyday life, excuses shape impressions of trust and responsibility. Some researchers view excuse-making as a normal coping mechanism and a means to navigate social expectations, while others associate it with rationalization or avoidance of accountability. Cultural norms influence what counts as a legitimate excuse.

See also: apology, justification, rationalization, pretext, exculpation.