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Anonymous Posted 18 years ago
Grammar
Let me pass!
On a flight, halfway across the Altlantic, having had plenty to drink beforehand and having just awoken bursting for a pee, the aisle blocked by a enormous fat American woman, (that probably would need a seatbelt extension,) who is on her knees jammed between the two opposing seats having a chin wag with other passengers, what would be the most polite way to ask this individual to let you pass?
Top answer
Hi, Excuse me, please. Clive
- Hi, Excuse me, please.
- Clive
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19 Answers
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So are you saying the imperative is the most polite way to ask someone to do something?
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An alternative in BrE would be "Could-I-just-um...", with a motion of the eyebrows in the desired direction of travel.
MrP
MrP
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The more indirect you are the more polite you will appear (up to the point where the other person thinks you are taking the **** out of them of course) so, let me think, what is the most indirect, long-winded way I could ask that question. Hmm, how about: Ahem, would madam be offended if I were to ask her if she would be so kind as to allow me to pass.
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I see 'excuse me' as a request not an imperitive. It's very polite.
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"Excuse me" is the standard polite way to ask someone to let you pass, whether the person is enormous, American, or otherwise.
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nona the britI see 'excuse me' as a request not an imperitive.Well it is imperative, not a request. A request would have a subject noun or pronoun. Would/could you allow me through? Could I pass?
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Hi,
In form it's an imperative, but in normal social situations it is seen as a request, particularly when accompanied by 'Please'.
As with all language, of course, the accompanying actions, tone , facial expression etc.come into play.
Joking aside, if you don't favour 'Excuse me, please', what is your suggestion for the most suitable thing to say?
Best wishes,
In form it's an imperative, but in normal social situations it is seen as a request, particularly when accompanied by 'Please'.
As with all language, of course, the accompanying actions, tone , facial expression etc.come into play.
Joking aside, if you don't favour 'Excuse me, please', what is your suggestion for the most suitable thing to say?
Best wishes,
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