Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

i-beg-your-pardon

Phrase
/ˈaɪ bɛɡ jʊər ˈpɑrdən/
Definition
A phrase used to politely ask someone to repeat something they have said, or to express that something said was surprising or offensive.
Examples
  • “I beg your pardon, I didn’t quite hear that.”
  • “If I make a mistake, I beg your pardon!”
  • “I beg your pardon, but I find that statement rather shocking.”
Meaning
It conveys a request for clarification or indicates that one is taken aback or slightly offended by what was said.
Synonyms
  • Excuse me
  • Sorry?
  • Pardon me
  • I beg your leave