excuser

Senses

1. 1.

   to excuse; to apologize for

   to offer an apology or justification for a fault or offense

2. 2.

   to pardon; to forgive

   to overlook or absolve someone of blame

3. 3.

   to exempt; to excuse from

   to free someone from an obligation or requirement

Examples

• "Je vous prie d'excuser mon retard."

  I beg you to excuse my lateness.

• "Excusez-moi, je ne savais pas que c'était interdit."

  Excuse me, I didn't know it was forbidden.

• "Elle a été excusée de participer à la réunion."

  She was excused from attending the meeting.

Usage

Common in apologies and polite expressions; often used reflexively (s'excuser) meaning "to apologize." Distinguish from *pardonner* (to forgive)-*excuser* typically focuses on justifying or overlooking a minor fault, while *pardonner* conveys deeper forgiveness.