excuse oneself—
1. apologize for something:
- A lady speaker was talking, so I excused myself for being late and introduced myself to everyone there.
2. make an apology declining or refusing smth.:
- Schwarz was for taking everyone out for a drink, but the rabbi excused himself.
3. politely ask to be allowed to leave a room:
- During coffee, he excused himself and went to his upstairs study to telephone Teresa.
make an excuse—
1. provide reasons or justifications for one’s actions:
- They could not make any excuse for shortening their stay at the castle.
2. = excuse oneself 1:
- Never be in a position where you have to make an excuse for being casually dressed.