When the word "excuse" is used as a noun, it refers to a reason for behavior or a lack of action. Notice that the "s" in this word is unvoiced.
He made an excuse for his behavior.
If you’re absent from class, you should bring an excuse to the teacher.
Do you have an excuse?
There’s really no excuse for doing that to another person.
Marta’s supervisor asked her for an excuse regarding the rude way in which she spoke to a customer, but she had no excuse.
That’s a very poor excuse.
He’s a poor excuse for a human being.
Excuses, excuses! (Said in response to a person who is always making excuses for something.)
When the word "excuse" is used as a verb, it’s the action of providing a reason for something, usually misbehavior or an accident. Notice that the "s" in this word is a voiced "z" sound.
Excuse me. I’m sorry.
Please excuse me.
The man asked his wife to excuse his behavior.
There’s no excusing that sort of behavior.
Excuse us, please. We have to get through. (Said when trying to get though a crowded area.)
Excuse our mess. We haven’t had a chance to clean up lately.
May I be excused? (Said by polite children who ask their parents for permission to leave the table after eating a meal.)
