Offers in excuse could have lapsed (6)
I believe the answer is:
pleads
'offers in excuse' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both to do with communicating as well as being verbs in their -s form.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?
'have lapsed' is the wordplay.
'lapsed' anagrams to 'PLEADS'.
However, I'm not clear how the anagram is indicated.
'could' is the link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for pleads that I've seen before include "Implores" , "Appeals or requests earnestly" , "Makes appeal or entreaty" , "Begs" .)