excuse me crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the "excuse me crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, complete with explanations and categorized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "excuse me crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
PARDON: A polite interjection used to express a mild apology or to ask someone to repeat what they just said. Often fits the "excuse me" context perfectly.
5 Letters
SORRY: A common expression of apology or regret, also used in situations where one might say "excuse me" for bumping into someone.
4 Letters
AHEM: An interjection used to get attention or as a mild, polite clearing of the throat, often preceding an interruption or comment, serving as a subtle "excuse me".
More About "excuse me crossword clue"
The clue "excuse me" is a versatile one in the world of crosswords, often leading to a range of answers depending on the nuance implied and the number of letters required. This common polite phrase can refer to seeking forgiveness, asking someone to move, or simply gaining attention. Crossword constructors love these types of clues because they allow for multiple interpretations and encourage solvers to think broadly about synonyms and related phrases.
Answers might range from direct apologies like PARDON or SORRY, to more subtle interjections such as AHEM, which signals a desire for attention or a gentle interruption. Understanding the context of the surrounding letters in your grid is crucial when tackling such a clue. Consider whether the 'excuse' is an apology, a request, or a mild protest.
Additionally, 'excuse me' can sometimes prompt a more archaic or less common word, making it a test of a solver's vocabulary depth. Our detailed explanations above aim to cover the most common and tricky solutions, ensuring you find the precise answer you need for your puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the context: Is "excuse me" used as an apology, a request for attention, or a polite interruption? This helps narrow down word choices like PARDON (apology/request) versus AHEM (attention).
- Check letter count first: Always count the spaces in your grid. This immediately filters out many possibilities, making it easier to match potential answers like SORRY (5 letters) or PARDON (6 letters).
- Think about interjections: Many "excuse me" answers are interjections. Keep common crossword interjections in mind, as they are frequently used for such polite phrases.
- Look for wordplay: Sometimes, "excuse me" might hint at a play on words, like "pardon" also meaning a legal release. While less common for direct "excuse me," it's a good general strategy.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there multiple answers for "excuse me" in crosswords?
The phrase "excuse me" has various uses: expressing apology, politely interrupting, or gaining attention. Each use can lead to different synonymous words or phrases, making it a versatile clue for constructors to use with different letter counts.
How does the number of letters help in solving "excuse me" clues?
The number of letters is critical. It immediately eliminates answers that don't fit the grid. For instance, if you need a 6-letter word, PARDON is a strong candidate, whereas SORRY (5 letters) would not fit. This narrows down possibilities significantly.
Are "pardon" and "ahem" always interchangeable in crosswords for "excuse me"?
No, while both can convey aspects of "excuse me", they have distinct nuances. "PARDON" is typically an apology or request for repetition, while "AHEM" is more about gaining attention or expressing mild disapproval. The specific context of the clue or surrounding letters usually indicates which is correct.