explain away

verb

1. (tr, adverb) to offer excuses or reasons for (bad conduct, mistakes, etc)

Idioms and Phrases

Dismiss or minimize the importance of something, especially something detrimental. For example, “His words were taken down, and though he tried to explain them away, he was sent to the Tower” (Thomas Macaulay, The History of England, 1855). [c. 1700]

Example Sentences

The more Donald tries to explain away his relationship with Epstein, the more explaining he needs to do.

From Salon

“About 3 million votes was the margin by which he lost the popular vote which is why I think he chose that 3 million number to try to explain away his popular vote loss,” Hasen said.

From Los Angeles Times

South Belfast MP Claire Hanna responded by saying "some politicians are choosing to explain away" episodes of violence.

From BBC

Still, even strong fields can’t explain away the Emmys’ treatment of “The Wire” — often listed among the greatest TV shows of all time — which not only never won in five seasons but was only nominated twice.

From Los Angeles Times

There are reasons, credible ones even, to explain away why they left Minnesota empty-handed.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• justify