excuse
verb (used with object)
to regard or judge with forgiveness or indulgence; pardon or forgive; overlook (a fault, error, etc.).
excused
-
past participleof excuse.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
-
past tense formof excuse.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
excuseverb (used with object)to regard or judge with forgiveness or indulgence; pardon or forgive; overlook (a fault, error, etc.).
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
But she claimed she was suffering from postpartum psychosis and sought to be excused from criminal responsibility.
From Barron's ● Oct. 1, 2026
If any fan can be excused for using “we” when speaking of their favorite sports team, it would probably be Lee.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 15, 2026
You’ll be excused for viewing that shameless promotion with cynicism as long as you also leave room to appreciate it as an indicator of how far the group has pulled popular culture.
From Salon ● May 31, 2026
Lutnick said he found the comment "off-putting", and so he and his wife excused themselves and left the home.
From BBC ● May 14, 2026
Can I be excused, since it’s your night for dishes?
From "Harbor Me" by Jacqueline Woodson
