pardon me
The phrase "pardon me" is a versatile expression used in various social contexts to maintain politeness and respect.
🇺🇸 US Voice:
🇬🇧 UK Voice:
Definition
A2General Conversation
(polite, common)A polite way to ask someone to repeat something that was not heard or understood.
Example
- Pardon me, could you say that again?
A2Social Interaction
(polite, common)An apology for a minor social offense, such as interrupting or bumping into someone.
Example
- Pardon me for interrupting, but I have a question.
- Pardon me, I didn't mean to step on your foot.
B1Disagreement
(polite, common)A polite way to soften a contradiction or disagreement.
Example
- Pardon me, but I think there's a mistake in your report.
A2Attention
(polite, common)Used to politely get someone's attention before asking a question or making a request.
Example
- Pardon me, can you direct me to the nearest restroom?
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "pardon me":