legitimate excuse
noun phraseUK /lɪˈdʒɪtɪmət ɪkˈskjuːz/
US /lɪˈdʒɪtəmət ɪkˈskjuz/
A real and fair reason that explains why you could not do something.
Her broken leg was a legitimate excuse for missing the school race.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A reason that is accepted as true by a teacher or boss.
He gave a legitimate excuse for being late to class.
3. A reason that follows the rules and is not made up.
The doctor's note made his absence a legitimate excuse.
4. A fair reason that others agree is believable.
Having a flat tire is a legitimate excuse for arriving late.