A statement expressing regret or asking for forgiveness for a mistake or offense.
Examples:
My apologies again.It's a pretty inadequate apology considering what I've cost her."I object and demand an apology."
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Excuse
/ɪkˈskjuːz/
A reason or explanation given to justify a fault or offense.
Examples:
I long to make apologies, excuses, to urge something for myself.Shocked and confused, she excused herself and went to her room.'Excuse me, old man,' he said.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Ways to tell them apart:
An apology is an expression of regret, while an excuse is often a reason given to explain or defend a mistake.
You apologize when you acknowledge you did something wrong; you make an excuse when you're trying to justify it.
An apology is sincere and relates to feelings; an excuse relates to circumstances.
Apologies often involve acceptance of responsibility; excuses might not involve admission of fault.
An apology aims to repair relationships, whereas an excuse might not have that intention.