an apology for something

an apology for

A poor example of a certain thing. That skinny kid is an apology for a linebacker. I gave you a low grade because the drivel you submitted was an apology for a real paper!See also: apology

an apology for something

a very poor example of something: I’m sorry this is a bit of an apology for lunch — we’ll have a proper meal tonight.See also: apology, something