excuser

Definition & meaning

The verb excuser has two primary meanings in French:

1. To forgive or pardon: Used when someone expresses regret for a mistake or a social faux pas, and the other person grants them forgiveness.
2. To justify or provide a reason: Used when explaining the motives or circumstances behind an action, often to diminish the blame associated with a fault or failure.

In its pronominal form, s'excuser ↗, it means to apologize or to ask for forgiveness for one's own actions.

Grammar & Word origin

• Grammar: It is a regular first-group verb (-er ending). It is a transitive verb that usually takes a direct object (e.g., "Excusez-moi").
• Origin: The word originates from the Latin excusare, which is a combination of ex- (away from) and causa (cause, reason, or lawsuit). Literally, it means "to remove a cause" or "to free from a charge."

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

• Pardonner ↗: To grant forgiveness.
• Justifier ↗: To provide a defense or explanation for an action.
• Disculper ↗: To clear someone of blame or guilt.
• Absoudre ↗: To formally release from guilt or obligation.

Antonyms:

• Accuser ↗: To charge someone with a fault or crime.
• Blâmer ↗: To assign responsibility or criticize for a negative outcome.
• Condamner ↗: To express strong disapproval or impose a penalty.