Ekskyus mi
The Bisaya phrase for "excuse me" is Ekskyus mi.
Ekskyus mi is used to get someone's attention or to apologize for minor social transgressions, such as accidentally bumping into someone.
Meaning: sorry, as apology (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
This phrase is a loanword from English. Ekskyus is the localized spelling of "excuse" and mi is a shortened form of the Cebuano pronoun kami, which means "us" or "we".
Which one should you use?
While Ekskyus mi literally uses the plural pronoun "us", speakers will often use Ekskyus ko when apologizing for a single person's action.
How does it change in a sentence?
In grammar, although Ekskyus mi utilizes the plural mi (us), you may use Ekskyus ko to specifically mean "excuse me" in a singular sense by using the singular pronoun ko (me).
What mistakes should you avoid?
If you are seeking forgiveness or have accidentally bumped into someone, you might also use Pasayloa ko.
Did you know?
- The use of Ekskyus mi to get someone's attention is common, but if you are trying to pass through a crowd, you might hear Tabi or Tabi lang instead.
- In highly formal settings, Pasayloa ko is preferred over Ekskyus mi because the latter can sound too casual or 'Americanized' to some traditional speakers.
- Depending on the region, a speaker might say Ekskyus alone without any pronoun, as the intent is understood through a rising intonation similar to a question.
Examples in context
- Pasayloa ko. Nabanggaan tika.Pardon me. I bumped into you.
Example conversation
Ricardo accidentally bumps into Ana in a crowded hallway.
- RicardoEkskyus mi, Ana. Wala ko kakita nimo.Excuse me, Ana. I didn't see you.
- AnaOkay ra, Ricardo. Wala nay problema.It's okay, Ricardo. No problem.
- RicardoPasayloa gyud ko.I am really sorry.
- AnaAyaw kabalaka, okay ra gyud ko.Don't worry, I'm really okay.
