Excuse asks for forgiveness or allowance, and me names the speaker. Together they form a polite request for a moment of attention or pardon.
Politely interrupt
social
neutral
Said before attracting attention, passing someone, leaving briefly, or offering a polite disagreement.
Examples
- Excuse me, is this the right bus?
- Excuse me, could I get past?
- Excuse me a moment, I need to take this call.
- Excuse me, but I think this is my seat.
- She said "Excuse me" as she walked between the chairs.
Similar words
pardon me
sorry
Apologize for a small mistake
social
neutral
Said to apologize for a small accidental action.
Examples
- I stepped on your foot. Excuse me.
- "Excuse me, I did not see you there."
- He bumped her bag and said, "Excuse me."
- Excuse me for arriving late.
- "Was that your chair? Excuse me," she said.
Similar words
sorry
pardon meAsk someone to repeat
conversation
neutral
In North American English, said when you did not hear or understand what someone said.
Examples
- "The train leaves at five." "Excuse me?"
- Excuse me, could you say that again?
- "Excuse me? I did not hear the number."
- He asked "Excuse me?" when she spoke too softly.
- Excuse me, did you say Monday or Tuesday?
Similar words
pardon?
sorry?