How to Use "I Beg Your Pardon" in Sentences with Examples
"I beg your pardon" is a polite phrase often used in English to request repetition, express surprise, or politely apologise. Understanding its meaning and usage helps students write better in school, speak confidently in daily life, and answer exam questions correctly. This topic is important for anyone aiming to improve silent or spoken English skills.
| Phrase | Meaning | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| I beg your pardon | Please excuse me / Sorry | Can you repeat that? |
| Excuse me | Give attention / Apology | Before speaking or moving past someone |
| Sorry | Apology | For mistakes or accidents |
| Pardon me | Please repeat / Polite interruption | Did not hear something well |
I Beg Your Pardon Meaning in English
"I beg your pardon" means "please excuse me," "sorry," or "could you repeat that?" It is a formal and respectful English phrase. This polite expression is mainly used when you want to ask someone to repeat their words, apologise for a small mistake, or express polite surprise at what was said.
Detailed Meaning and Usage of I Beg Your Pardon
The phrase "I beg your pardon" is generally considered formal. It is used to show respect, especially with elders, teachers, or in business settings. It might sound old-fashioned in daily conversation, but is still common in exams, interviews and polite writing. In casual settings, phrases like "sorry" or "excuse me" are more commonly used.
When and How to Use I Beg Your Pardon
If you did not hear or understand something: "I beg your pardon, could you repeat that?"
If you want to apologise politely: "I beg your pardon, I did not mean to step on your foot."
Expressing polite surprise or offence: "I beg your pardon! Did you just say that?"
When writing formal letters or emails: "I beg your pardon for the delay in my response."
I Beg Your Pardon Examples in English
"I beg your pardon, what did you say about the meeting time?"
"I beg your pardon for interrupting, but may I ask a question?"
"I beg your pardon! I did not realise you were waiting here."
Indian English: "Sorry, I beg your pardon, sir. Can you kindly repeat?"
"I beg your pardon for my earlier comments."
Synonyms and Alternatives for I Beg Your Pardon
Excuse me
Sorry
Pardon me
Could you repeat that?
Forgive me
Use these synonyms to avoid repeating the same phrase in conversation or writing, and choose based on how formal you want to sound.
Important Tips for Using I Beg Your Pardon
Choose this phrase for formal occasions or when speaking with elders, teachers, or in interviews.
Use "sorry" or "excuse me" with friends and in casual situations, as "I beg your pardon" may sound too formal.
Never use "I beg your pardon" in a sarcastic tone unless you know the context. It can sound rude if not used correctly.
In written English (emails or letters), use this phrase to convey utmost respect and politeness in sensitive situations.
I Beg Your Pardon vs Sorry vs Excuse Me
| Phrase | Main Use | Level of Formality |
|---|---|---|
| I beg your pardon | Polite repeat / Apology / Surprise | Formal |
| Sorry | Direct Apology | Informal/Formal |
| Excuse me | Polite interruption / Attention | Neutral |
How I Beg Your Pardon Helps in Exams and Daily Life
Knowing how to use "I beg your pardon" helps you score better in school English papers, interviews, and speaking exams. It shows that you understand formal English expressions and know when to be polite in conversations, letters, and emails.
Further Resources and Related Vedantu Pages
- Idioms and Phrases
- Introduction to Punctuation
- Basics of Grammar
- Difference Between Was and Were
- Polite Expressions in English
- Active and Passive Voice
- Reported Speech
- Everyday Use Sentences in English
- Difference Between Can and Could
- Modal Verbs
- Order of Words in a Sentence
In summary, "I beg your pardon" is a formal English phrase for apologies, polite requests, and seeking repetition. Use it in respectful settings, letters, or when unsure. Learning this and alternatives gives confidence during exams, interviews, and English conversations. For more English topics, explore Vedantu’s resources above.
FAQs on I Beg Your Pardon: Meaning and Usage Explained
1. What does "I beg your pardon" mean in English?
"I beg your pardon" is a formal English phrase used to politely express apology or to request someone to repeat something they said. It conveys more respect than a simple "sorry" or "excuse me."
2. How do you use "I beg your pardon" in a sentence?
"I beg your pardon" can be used in several ways. Here are some examples:
- Apology: "I beg your pardon, I didn't mean to step on your toes."
- Request for repetition: "I beg your pardon, could you please repeat that?"
- Expressing surprise or disbelief: "I beg your pardon, did you just say that?"
3. Is "I beg your pardon" formal or informal?
"I beg your pardon" is considered a formal phrase. It's more appropriate for formal settings and interactions with strangers or those in authority. Using it in casual conversation might sound overly polite or even stiff.
4. What is the difference between "I beg your pardon" and "Sorry"?
While both express apology, "I beg your pardon" is far more formal than "sorry." "Sorry" is suitable for everyday use, while "I beg your pardon" is reserved for more serious situations or when addressing someone of higher status. "I beg your pardon" can also be used to request clarification, whereas "sorry" is strictly an apology.
5. Can I use "I beg your pardon" for asking someone to repeat?
Yes, "I beg your pardon" is perfectly acceptable for politely asking someone to repeat themselves. It's a more formal alternative to phrases like "Excuse me," "What was that?", or "Could you repeat that please?"
6. What are synonyms for "I beg your pardon"?
Synonyms for "I beg your pardon" include: "Excuse me," "Pardon me," "Sorry," "Please repeat that," "Could you say that again?" The best choice depends on context and desired level of formality. Excuse me is a good general alternative for less formal situations.
7. When to use "I beg your pardon"?
Use "I beg your pardon" in formal settings, when addressing someone older or in a position of authority, or when you need to express a sincere apology for a more serious offense. It's also appropriate when you didn't hear something clearly and need a repetition.
8. What does beg your pardon mean?
"Beg your pardon" essentially means "please excuse me" or "I apologize." It's a polite and formal way to show remorse or ask for clarification. The phrase implies a higher level of respect and formality than other apologies.
9. How do you use pardon in a sentence?
The word "pardon" can be used as a noun (meaning forgiveness) or a verb (meaning to excuse or forgive). Here are examples:
- Noun: He asked for pardon for his actions.
- Verb: Pardon me for interrupting.
10. When someone says "I beg your pardon"?
Someone might say "I beg your pardon" to apologize for something they did (like unintentionally bumping into someone) or to politely request someone to repeat what they just said because they didn't hear it properly. It signals politeness and respect.
11. I beg your pardon meaning in Tagalog sentence?
The direct translation of "I beg your pardon" in Tagalog isn't a single phrase but depends on the context. Possible translations include: Patawarin mo ako (for an apology) or Maaari mo bang ulitin iyon? (for a request to repeat). It's best to choose the translation based on the specific situation.
12. I beg your pardon meaning in Urdu?
In Urdu, "I beg your pardon" can be translated in several ways depending on the context: maf kijiye ga (more formal, for apology) or kia aap woh phir se keh sakte hain? (for asking for repetition).
13. I beg your pardon example?
Here are a few examples of "I beg your pardon" in use:
- "I beg your pardon, sir, I didn't understand your question."
- "I beg your pardon, but I believe you've made a mistake."
- "I beg your pardon, I didn't realize I was in your way."
