I want to post more often, so I plan to scan CE topics to find an interesting word. Selection of the word of the day is sometimes limited, so mention me with @chaoyun2k if you see a word on CE that might make a good word for the word of the day. If you want to post in this topic, try to use the word of the day in a sentence.
apology, apologia, excuse, plea, pretext, alibi mean matter offered in explanation or defense.
apology usually applies to an expression of regret for a mistake or wrong with implied admission of guilt or fault and with or without reference to mitigating or extenuating circumstances. said by way of apology that he would have met them if he could
apologia implies not admission of guilt or regret but a desire to make clear the grounds for some course, belief, or position. his speech was an apologia for his foreign policy
excuse implies an intent to avoid or remove blame or censure. used illness as an excuse for missing the meeting
plea stresses argument or appeal for understanding or sympathy or mercy. her usual plea that she was nearsighted
pretext suggests subterfuge and the offering of false reasons or motives in excuse or explanation. used any pretext to get out of work
alibi implies a desire to shift blame or evade punishment and imputes mere plausibility to the explanation. his alibi failed to stand scrutiny
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Some are wise, some are otherwise, and I have my moments.