How Do You Spell EXCUSE ME?

Pronunciation: [ɛkskjˈuːs mˌiː] (IPA)

The spelling of the phrase "excuse me" is quite straightforward. The first syllable is pronounced as /ɪkˈskjuːz/ with a short "i" followed by a "k" sound and a "yoo" sound. The second syllable is pronounced as /mi/ with a long "e" sound and a short "i" sound. This phrase is commonly used to politely get someone's attention, ask for forgiveness, or apologize for accidentally bumping into someone. It is important to use this phrase appropriately to maintain good social manners.

EXCUSE ME Meaning and Definition

1. "Excuse me" is a phrase used as a polite way to get someone's attention or to apologize for a slight inconvenience or interruption. It serves as a social convention, allowing individuals to navigate various situations with respect and courtesy.

   When used to get someone's attention, "excuse me" acts as a gentle form of interruption or approach, typically when trying to engage in conversation, seek assistance, or ask a question politely. By saying "excuse me," individuals show that they acknowledge and respect the other person's personal space and time, while also implying that they have something important or necessary to communicate.

   Furthermore, "excuse me" is employed as an expression of apology or as a request for forgiveness after inadvertently invading someone's personal space, interrupting them, or causing any minor inconvenience or annoyance. In this context, it highlights an individual's sense of empathy, recognizing the impact of their actions and expressing regret for any unintentional harm done.

   Overall, "excuse me" serves as a social lubricant, essential for maintaining harmonious interactions in public settings. It encompasses the elements of courtesy, respect, and acknowledging others' needs and boundaries while also allowing individuals to navigate social situations with grace and consideration.

Common Misspellings for EXCUSE ME

• excuseme

Etymology of EXCUSE ME

The phrase "excuse me" originated from the Latin word "excusare", which means "apologize" or "pardon". In Old French, it evolved into "escuser" with the same meaning. Over time, it transformed into "excuse" in Middle English and took on the sense of politely seeking pardon or getting someone's attention. Today, "excuse me" remains an expression used to apologize, politely interrupt, or gain attention in a courteous manner.

Idioms with the word EXCUSE ME

• Excuse me for living! The idiom "Excuse me for living!" is a sarcastic or self-deprecating statement used to acknowledge one's own existence or presence in an exaggeratedly insignificant or unworthy manner. It is a humorous way of expressing a feeling of being inconsequential or undeserving of attention.
• Excuse me for breathing! The idiom "Excuse me for breathing!" is an sarcastic or self-deprecating phrase used to express a feeling of being unwanted, unimportant, or a burden on others. It is often said when someone feels criticized or ignored by others, as if their existence itself is somehow a nuisance.
• Would you excuse me? "Would you excuse me?" is a polite way to ask someone to allow you to leave or to interrupt them for a moment.
• excuse me A polite expression used to interrupt or get someone's attention, typically used when apologizing for breaking social norms or when trying to navigate through a crowd.

Similar spelling word for EXCUSE ME

• exciseman.