About "excuse"
How to Split "excuse" into Syllables
The word excuse is divided into 3 syllables: ex·cu·se. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.
📝 Syllable Breakdown
- ex — 1st syllable
- cu — 2nd syllable
- se — 3rd syllable
🔊 Pronunciation Guide
The phonetic transcription of excuse:
- IPA: /ɪkˈskjuːz/
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📖 Definitions
- excuse (third-person singular simple present excuses, present participle excusing, simple past and past participle excused)
- To relieve of an imputation by apology or defense; to make apology for as not seriously evil; to ask pardon or indulgence for.
📚 Word Origin & History
From Middle English excusen (verb) and excuse (noun), borrowed from Old French escuser (verb) and excuse (noun), from Latin excūsō, excūsāre (“to excuse, allege in excuse, literally, free from a charge”), from ex (“out”) + causa (“a charge”); see cause, accuse and recuse. Displaced native Old English lād (“an excuse”) and lādian (“to excuse”). Deverbal from excuser.
✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?
Understanding how to break down excuse into syllables helps with:
- Correct pronunciation — Knowing syllable structure ensures accurate speech
- Improved spelling — Breaking words into chunks makes them easier to remember and write
- Reading fluency — Recognizing syllable patterns speeds up reading comprehension
- Poetry and lyrics — Syllable counting is essential for meter and rhythm
- Language learning — Non-native speakers benefit from syllable awareness
📊 Similar Words Comparison
Compare excuse with related words to understand syllable patterns:
| Word | Syllables | Division |
|---|---|---|
| excuse | 3 | ex·cu·se |
| Esq | 1 | esq |
| ego | 1 | ego |
| echo | 2 | e-cho |
| easy | 2 | ea-sy |
🔗 Related Words
Explore syllable divisions of words related to excuse:
excl, excel, exceed, except, excess, excise, excite, excerpt.