scusatemi

Scusatemi is an Italian expression meaning “excuse me” or “pardon me.” It is used to apologize for a minor offense, to interrupt politely, or to preface a question or request. The phrase is common in everyday speech and in public or formal settings, helping to soften statements or actions that might inconvenience others.

Usage and forms differ by level of formality and number of people addressed. Scusare is the verb at the heart of the expression. The informal singular form is scusa, the formal singular form is scusi, and the plural form scusate. Scusatemi, with the clitic mi, is typically used to address more than one person or to add a higher level of politeness when addressing a single person, though it is often heard as a general, courteous way to say “excuse me.”

In context, scusatemi is commonly employed before interrupting someone, drawing attention in a crowded place, or making a small, apologetic remark. It can also appear in customer service or broadcast settings where politeness is expected. Although its precise grammatical role can vary with regional usage and formality, the function remains consistent: to acknowledge a potential disturbance and seek the listener’s understanding.

See also: scusa, scusi, scusate, mi scusi.