Phrase
/ˈɛni oʊld ɪkˈskjus/
The phrase "any old excuse" refers to a justification or reason that may not be valid or convincing; it implies the speaker believes that the excuse is trivial, overused, or insincere. This phrase is often used in informal contexts, and it can convey a sense of skepticism or disdain about the excuses being offered.
"Any old excuse" is frequently used in spoken English as well as in written contexts, particularly in informal writing, such as blogs or conversation transcripts. The phrase is commonly encountered in discussions where someone is trying to justify their actions or decisions but is met with reluctance or doubt by others.
He always comes up with any old excuse to avoid doing his chores.
(Él siempre encuentra cualquier excusa vieja para evitar hacer sus tareas.)
She couldn’t believe that he used any old excuse just to skip the party.
(No podía creer que él usara cualquier excusa vieja solo para saltarse la fiesta.)
Don’t give me any old excuse; I can see through your lies.
(No me des cualquier excusa vieja; puedo ver a través de tus mentiras.)
The phrase "any old excuse" can be found in several idiomatic expressions. Here are a few examples:
"That's just any old excuse."
(Esa es solo cualquier excusa vieja.)
"Using any old excuse won't fool us."
(Usar cualquier excusa vieja no nos engañará.)
"He always has any old excuse ready when he’s late."
(Siempre tiene cualquier excusa vieja lista cuando llega tarde.)
"It's time to stop making any old excuse for not exercising."
(Es hora de dejar de poner cualquier excusa vieja para no hacer ejercicio.)
"You can't keep giving me any old excuse; I need a real reason."
(No puedes seguir dándome cualquier excusa vieja; necesito una razón real.)
The phrase "any old excuse" derives from the combination of three common English words. "Any" signifies one or more without specific reference. "Old" refers to something that is not new, often implying it's been used many times before. "Excuse" comes from the Latin "excusare," meaning to free from blame or to seek to explain or justify. Combining these words implies an excuse that is seen as worn-out or devoid of credibility.