Excuse generator

💼 Excuses for calling in to work

• I woke up with a migraine and can't look at a screen today.
• I've had a stomach bug since last night. I'll keep you posted, but I won't be in.
• My child is sick and I need to stay home with them.
• I have a plumbing emergency: water is coming through the ceiling and the plumber can only come today.
• My car won't start and I'm waiting for roadside assistance.

⏰ Excuses for running late

• Traffic is terrible. There's been an accident on the main road.
• My train is delayed and they haven't said for how long.
• I had to go back home because I left my phone.
• The school run took longer than usual this morning.
• I got stuck behind a broken-down bus.

📅 Excuses for cancelling plans

• I'm so sorry, I'm not feeling well and don't want to pass anything on.
• Something came up at work and I have to deal with it tonight.
• I double-booked myself by mistake. Can we pick another day?
• I'm completely exhausted this week and wouldn't be good company. Rain check?
• A family thing came up that I need to be there for.

🎉 Excuses for leaving a party early

• I have an early start tomorrow and need to head off.
• My babysitter needs to leave, so I have to go.
• I'm feeling really tired. Thank you for having me, it was lovely.
• I've got a long drive home and want to beat the traffic.
• I promised my partner I'd be home by now.

📚 Excuses for missing homework

• I wasn't sure what the question was asking. Could you explain it again?
• I was ill last night and couldn't finish it.
• I did it but left it at home. Can I bring it tomorrow?
• Our internet went down and I couldn't upload it.
• I had a family event that went on late.

🏋️ Excuses for skipping the gym

• My muscles are still sore from last time. Rest days matter.
• I'm feeling a bit run down and don't want to get ill.
• I have to work late tonight.
• I'll do a walk instead. It still counts.
• I didn't sleep well and could hurt myself.

Excuses: questions

What is a good excuse for calling out of work?

Short and simple works best: being ill, a sick child, a home emergency like a burst pipe, or car trouble. Long, detailed stories sound made up. Honestly, "I need a personal day" is often accepted.

Should I use these excuses for real?

The believable ones are common, real reasons. Lying to an employer can cost you your job, so use them with care, and the absurd ones only with people who will laugh.

What is a good excuse to leave a party early?

An early start, a babysitter who needs to leave, or simply being tired. Thank the host, keep it short, and leave before you start explaining.