excuse me
phrase
1
—used as a polite way of starting to say something
Excuse me, but do you mind if I shut the window?
2
—used as a polite way of starting to interrupt someone
Excuse me, but may I say something?
3
—used as a polite way of trying to get someone's attention
Excuse me, do you know where I can find Maple Street?
4
—used as a polite way of starting to say one disagrees with someone
Excuse me, but I don't think those figures are entirely accurate.
5
—used as a polite apology for a minor fault or offense, such as laughing, coughing, or burping
6
US
—used as a polite apology for getting in someone's way or bumping into someone
Oh, excuse me. I didn't notice you standing there.
7
chiefly US
—used as a polite way of asking someone to repeat something
Excuse me? I didn't hear the last part of what you were saying.
8
informal
—often used in an annoyed way when someone has suggested that a person has done something wrong and the person does not agree
"You were supposed to be home an hour ago." "Well, excuse me! I had to fix a flat tire."
Cite this Entry
“Excuse me.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/excuse%20me. Accessed 21 Jul. 2026.
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
