1. (noun) a defense of some offensive behavior or some failure to keep a promise etc.

• alibi
• excuse
• self-justification

1. (noun) a defense of some offensive behavior or some failure to keep a promise etc.

• defence
• defense
• vindication

2. (noun) the act of freeing from guilt or blame

• forgiveness
• pardon

1. (noun) a defense of some offensive behavior or some failure to keep a promise etc.

• extenuation
• mitigation

1. (noun) a defense of some offensive behavior or some failure to keep a promise etc.

• alibi
• apologise
• apologize
• excuse
• justify
• rationalise
• rationalize
• condone
• excuse
• excuse
• explain
• excuse
• pardon

2. (noun) the act of freeing from guilt or blame

• acquit
• assoil
• clear
• discharge
• exculpate
• exonerate