Spanish Conversation · Level 37
74 words
Spanish word
excusar
Pronunciation
IPA/ekskuˈsaɾ/
Meaning
- verbexcuse
Example
No intentes excusar tu error.
Don't try to excuse your mistake.
More examples
¿Puedes excusar mi retraso?
Can you excuse my lateness?
Core concept
An explanation presented to justify behavior or to request release from a duty.
Common phrases
excusar mi retraso
excuse my lateness
excusar a alguien
excuse someone
excusar un error
excuse an error
Similar words
disculpar: Removes blame or punishment for someone as an act of leniency or pardon.
perdonar: Stops resenting someone's wrongdoing and restores goodwill toward them.
justificar: Offers facts or circumstances that defend an action as acceptable or understandable.
Definition in Spanish
Presentar motivos para justificar una acción o pedir que se perdone; también utilizarse para eximir a alguien de un compromiso.
Word origin
From Latin excūsāre (ex- 'out' + causa 'cause'), meaning 'remove the cause', which gave Spanish the dual senses of explaining oneself and exempting someone.
Usage tips
- Spanish speakers often use disculpar or pedir perdón for 'forgive', so using excusar for forgiveness can sound formal or evasive.