When should you say 'sorry' or 'excuse me' or offer an apology?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the appropriate contexts for using phrases like "sorry," "excuse me," or offering an apology. Participants explore nuances in language and expression, focusing on social interactions and communication styles.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks input on the appropriate use of "sorry" and "excuse me," indicating a desire for clarification on social norms.
  • Another participant humorously critiques the original phrasing, suggesting an alternative expression that plays on the metaphor of hearing and vision.
  • A third participant responds with a light-hearted comment, referencing a character to diffuse tension and encourage a playful atmosphere.
  • A subsequent post reiterates the playful tone, suggesting a specific response that aligns with the character's style, furthering the humorous exchange.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion features a mix of light-hearted banter and critiques of language use, with no clear consensus on the original question regarding apologies and their appropriate contexts.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying interpretations of language and humor, which may reflect personal communication styles and cultural references. The discussion does not delve into specific social norms or guidelines.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in language use, social interactions, and communication styles may find this discussion relevant.

Spirit
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So Hi,

I heard once people talking about when to say: 'sorry' or 'excuse me' or offer an apology. it was brief and i heard it 'from the tip of my ear'.

Any inputs regarding this matter is appreciated!
 
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I would have said: "I only heard it out of the corner of my ear." This would be an amusing comparison of hearing to vision, by hijacking the turn of speech about only seeing something out of the corner of your eye (i.e. only in your peripheral vision) and employing it to paint a picture of only having heard something vaguely because the sound was too soft or because you weren't paying full attention to a background conversation.

Instead, you're performing an infelicitous hijacking of the turn of speech about something being on the tip of your tongue.
 
Aww, gee, zooby, cut some slack. What would Donald Duck say?
 
selfAdjoint said:
Aww, gee, zooby, cut some slack. What would Donald Duck say?
I was setting it up so someone could come back and advise him that at this point he could reply: "Well, EXCUUUUUSSEEE MEEE!."
 
:smile: :smile: :smile:
 

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