ENGLISH
REFERENCE

excuse me

fixed phr..
A1 Beginner Oxford

fixed phr.. A polite phrase you use to get someone's attention, to say sorry for a small mistake, or to ask someone to move so you can pass.

fixed phr.. A fixed expression used as a politeness marker to mitigate a face-threatening act, such as interrupting, seeking passage, or apologising for a minor social transgression.


SIMPLE

Excuse me, what time is it?

CONTEXTUAL

Excuse me, could I just get past you to reach that last seat?

COMPLEX

Excuse me for interrupting, Director, but there is an urgent call for you on line one that you really must take.

Usage

Often used at the start of a question or as a standalone phrase to get attention.

Teaching tip

Contrast with 'sorry' (for more significant mistakes) and 'pardon me' (a slightly more formal alternative, especially in American English).

Pitfall

Excuse, can you help me?Excuse me, can you help me?The object pronoun 'me' is a required part of this fixed phrase.

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