Words / C2

ap-uh-LOHJ-ee-uh/ˌæpəˈləʊdʒiə/

An apologia is a formal written defence of one’s opinions or conduct (not merely saying sorry): an apologia for the scheme, publish an apologia. An apology (already in the dictionary) is everyday saying sorry — the classic mix-up of spelling and sense; sorry (already in the dictionary) is the everyday adjective, and to apologise (already in the dictionary) is to say you are sorry. Defence (already in the dictionary) is protection or a legal case; to defend and to justify (already in the dictionary) are to protect against attack, and to give a good reason. Justification (already in the dictionary) is a reason that makes it acceptable. This batch: to adduce is to cite as evidence. Branding is not a finding on a breach.

Meaning

A formal written defence of one’s opinions or conduct (not merely saying sorry).

Examples

• “An apologia for the branding is not a finding on the breach.”
• “An apology is saying sorry (already in B1) — the mix-up. Sorry is a polite apology (already in A1). To apologise is to say sorry (already in B1). Defence is protection or a legal case (already in B2). To defend is to protect against attack (already in B1). To justify is to give a good reason (already in B2). Justification is a reason that makes it acceptable (already in B1). To adduce is to cite as evidence (this batch). A dated finding can still be short. A defence of the logo that never names the breach is decoration. Write the finding; leave the memoir.”

Good to know

A formal written defence. Mix-up: apology / apologise / sorry (saying sorry — already in this dictionary). Close: defence (already in B2); defend / justify (already in this dictionary). This batch: adduce. A memoir ≠ a finding.

Near in meaning

defence, vindication, justification, plea

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