The term PATHETIC, AS AN EXCUSE can be broken down into three crossword solutions: SAD (3 letters), LAME (4 letters), and POOR (4 letters). All three words are used to describe something that is inadequate or unsatisfactory. SAD implies a feeling of sorrow or unhappiness, while LAME suggests something is weak or ineffective. Lastly, POOR implies something is of low quality or lacking in resources. Together, these three words paint a picture of an excuse that is inadequate, unsatisfactory, sorrowful, weak, and of low quality.