People usually make an apology for doing something wrong or causing a problem. An excuse is a reason people sometimes give for doing something bad.
Arthur meets Tony outside a theatre. Arthur is late. Read their conversation and answer the questions. Then work in pairs to practise the conversation. Arthur Sorry I’m late, Tony, but the bus broke down, and there were no taxis. Tony That’s all right, Arthur. I’ve just got here myself, so I wasn’t waiting for long. Arthur And, Tony, I’m terribly sorry, but I’ve forgotten to bring the tickets with me. Tony Oh, don’t say that. How could you do that? Arthur It’s my memory. It’s so bad these days. I keep forgetting things. Tony Then you’d better do something about it, hadn’t you?
*B2
Normally, we accept apologies. Here are some phrases we use: That’s all right. It doesn’t matter. No problem. Never mind. Forget it. Don’t worry about it. It’s nothing. Things/Accidents happen.