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There’s no doubt that we all use the phrase “excuse me” in our day-to-day communication. It’s one of the most widely used English phrases, so it’s important to learn how to use it properly both formally and casually. It’s also essential to know other synonyms to this popular phrase or rather learn other ways to say “excuse me”.
So without further ado, let’s jump straight in.
What Does “Excuse Me” Mean?
The phrase “excuse me” has various meanings and can be used in various situations. It can be used as a polite way of interjecting someone when in a conversation, starting a conversation, capturing someone’s attention, asking to leave, or expressing regret.
For example, this popular English phrase can be used to politely attract someone’s attention, especially when starting a conversation.
You can also use this phrase as a polite way of asking someone to move out of the way for you to pass.
Another popular way to use “excuse me” is when you’re apologizing for something you’ve done unintentionally or accidentally and could be annoying to other people such as sneezing or coughing.
However, the most common way to use “excuse me” is when you’re politely and respectfully asking someone to repeat something they’ve said because you didn’t hear it.
Other Ways to Say “Excuse Me”
Given the different meanings of this popular phrase, there are both formal and informal ways of using it.
Formal Ways of Saying “Excuse Me”
Here are other formal ways of saying “excuse me”.
- I beg your pardon
This can be used when you’re politely asking someone to repeat what he’s just said.
Example: I beg your pardon, kindly be louder.
- Forgive me
This can be used when politely and respectfully asking to disagree with a given point.
Example: Forgive me, I think this is not the right way of doing it.
- My apologies
This is a polite way to excuse an action that you’ve done intentionally or accidentally such as sneezing or coughing.
Example: My apologies, I didn’t mean to be late.
Informal Ways to Say “Excuse Me”
- My bad
This is an informal way of taking responsibility for doing something bad or making a mistake.
Example: My bad, I was wrong on this one.
- Sorry to bother you
This can be used to catch someone’s attention or interrupt them.
Example: Sorry to bother you; is this the right way to Manhattan?
- Sorry to jump in
This is an informal but polite way of interrupting someone.
Example: Sorry to jump in, but I’ve been trying to book an appointment with you for the last three weeks.
Slang Ways to Say “Excuse Me”
- I don’t mean to barge in
This is a very casual way of interrupting someone.
Example: I don’t mean to barge in, but let me join in on your conversation.
- I have to butt in, sorry
This is a very informal way of giving an opinion or joining a conversation on something that doesn’t concern you.
Example: I’m sorry I have to butt in, but I do not think this is the right direction to take.
Alternatives to Say “Excuse Me”
- Mea culpa
- I’m sorry
- Scuzzie Mama
- My mistake
- Sorry
- Oops
- Pardon me
- Whoops
- I beg your forgiveness
- Do you mind?
- Accept my apologies
- Pardon?
- Sorry about that
- Oh
- Be sorry for
- Be forgiven
- Sorry to inform
- I sincerely apologize
As you can see, there are various ways to say “excuse me” without actually using the phrase. Your English won’t sound too boring if you try these phrases instead of using the widely used “excuse me”.
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