The act of making excuses or offering explanations for something; the formal presentation of reasons why something should be forgiven.
From Latin excusatio (an excusing, apology), derived from excusare. This Latinate noun form emphasizes the act of offering explanations rather than merely forgiving.
Medieval philosophy distinguished between excusation (explaining why you acted) and contrition (feeling sorry)—sometimes people excusate without actually regretting, which is why 'he's always making excusations' sounds hollow and insincere.
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