excuse (one) for (something)

excuse (one) for (something)

To forgive one for something, often a minor indiscretion. Please excuse me for my lateness—the traffic was really bad tonight.

See also: excuse

excuse someone for something

to pardon someone for something or for (doing) something. Please excuse me for this mess. I've not been able to clean the house. I can't excuse myself for not doing it.

See also: excuse