A dictionary of Confusable Phrases: More Than 10,000 Idioms and Collocations

Note: 
Neither expression fully correlates in meaning with the
phrase with the exception of something—
1
. = except for some-
thing 
1
: The streets were empty, with the exception of a few
vendors who wanted an early days’ start. 2. = except something:
Due to the fog all the flights (with the exception of ours) were
cancelled.
exchange a few words with someone • exchange
words with someone
exchange a few words with someone —have a short conversa-
tion with smb.: The man turned and exchanged a few words
with his neighbor.
exchange words with someone —quarrel with a person: Have
you been exchanging words with our neighbor again?
exclusive to someone • to the exclusion of someone
exclusive to someone —said of smth. applying only to the
people stated: This is a special offer at reduced rates, exclusive
to members of the club.
to the exclusion of someone —so as to keep some people out:
The rules of the club worked to the exclusion of anyone who
was not of professional status.
excuse oneself • make an excuse
excuse oneself —
1
. apologize for something: A lady speaker
was talking, so I excused myself for being late and introduced
myself to everyone there. 2. make an apology declining or re-
fusing smth.: Schwarz was for taking everyone out for a drink,
but the rabbi excused himself. 3. politely ask to be allowed to
leave a room: During coffee, he excused himself and went to
his upstairs study to telephone Teresa.
make an excuse —
1
. provide reasons or justifications for one’s
actions: They could not make any excuse for shortening their
stay at the castle. 2. = excuse oneself 
1
: Never be in a position
where you have to make an excuse for being casually dressed.