make an excuse

This page is about the collocation make an excuse

collocation pattern: verb + noun

Meaning

to give a reason for doing something you shouldn't do, or for not doing something you should do

For example

  • He got to work late and made some excuse about being stuck in traffic.

  • What excuse did he make for not having the money he owes us this time?

Quick Quiz

Politicians have to make excuses when they

a. don't keep their promises

b. don't break their promises

c. don't make their promises
a) don't keep their promises b) don't break their promises c) don't make their promises

Contributor: Matt Errey