a suitable excuse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a suitable excuse" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a reason or justification that is appropriate or acceptable in a given situation. Example: "He provided a suitable excuse for his absence from the meeting, which was well-received by his colleagues."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

This will also provide a suitable excuse to keep him or her away from rattling you further.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The only suitable excuse, aside from death, would be to have mislaid a pair of earrings: that, after all, is the loss — invented by the heroine (Danielle Darrieux), an expert in white lies — that sets the film in motion.

The New Yorker

"We just gave the state an excuse not to provide a suitable residence for the first family". Not that the state didn't try.

Los Angeles Times

A suitable villain.

The New York Times - Books

A Suitable Fern Q.

The New York Times

A suitable suitor?

The Economist

Finding a suitable POST.

Science Magazine

Find a suitable journal.

WikiHow

Select a suitable location.

WikiHow

Select a suitable headband.

WikiHow

Find a suitable log.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a suitable excuse", ensure that the excuse aligns with the context and is perceived as reasonable by the audience. Consider the potential consequences if the excuse is disbelieved or deemed inadequate.

Common error

Avoid relying on "a suitable excuse" in professional or formal settings where a more direct and transparent explanation is expected. Instead, provide specific details and take responsibility for any shortcomings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a suitable excuse" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the object of a verb (e.g., 'offer', 'provide', 'find'). It describes a reason or justification that is considered acceptable or appropriate in a particular context. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Wiki

67%

News & Media

33%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a suitable excuse" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe an acceptable justification or reason for something. Ludwig highlights its usability in written English. Its frequency is rare, and it's primarily found in general contexts like Wiki and News & Media. When using this phrase, consider the audience and the situation to determine if a simple excuse is sufficient or if a more detailed explanation is needed. Alternatives include "an acceptable reason" and "a valid justification". While grammatically sound, be mindful of the context and register to ensure the phrase is appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an acceptable reason

Focuses more directly on the acceptability of the reason.

a valid justification

Emphasizes the legitimacy and soundness of the excuse.

a plausible explanation

Highlights the believability and reasonableness of the given reason.

a good reason

A simpler, more general alternative.

an adequate alibi

Specifically refers to an excuse used to avoid blame or suspicion.

a convincing story

Suggests the excuse is well-crafted and persuasive.

a legitimate pretext

Emphasizes the lawfulness or appropriateness of the reason.

a credible account

Focuses on the believability and trustworthiness of the explanation.

an appropriate rationale

Highlights the suitability and logic of the justification.

a satisfactory answer

Focuses on the excuse meeting the required expectations.

FAQs

How can I use "a suitable excuse" in a sentence?

You can use "a suitable excuse" to describe a reason that is appropriate and acceptable in a particular situation. For example, "He offered "a suitable excuse" for missing the deadline, citing a family emergency".

What can I say instead of "a suitable excuse"?

You can use alternatives like "an acceptable reason", "a valid justification", or "a plausible explanation" depending on the context.

Is it better to offer "a suitable excuse" or a detailed explanation?

It depends on the situation. Sometimes, "a suitable excuse" is sufficient, especially for minor issues. However, for more significant matters, a detailed explanation demonstrating accountability is usually more effective.

When is it inappropriate to use "a suitable excuse"?

It's generally inappropriate to use "a suitable excuse" when honesty and transparency are expected, such as in legal proceedings, critical professional situations, or when dealing with matters of trust and integrity. In such cases, providing a full and truthful account is essential.