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Where did “Pardon my French” come from?
What does Pardon my French mean?
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Why do Americans say 'Pardon my French'?
Why did a French aristocrat say 'Pardon my French'?
Pardon my French" or "Excuse my French" is a common English language phrase ostensibly disguising profanity as words from the French language. The phrase is uttered in an attempt to excuse the user of profanity, swearing, or curses in the presence of those offended by it, under the pretense of the words being part of a foreign language.
Jul 3, 2024 · The phrase “pardon my French” initially emerged in the 19th century. During this period, French was considered the language of the educated and the elite. English speakers, particularly those wanting to appear sophisticated, would often pepper their conversations with French phrases.
Feb 23, 2022 · The phrase "pardon my French" is often used to preface a curse word, but does it actually have roots in the French language? Here's where it comes from.
The exact origin of “pardon my French” is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the 19th century. At that time, French was considered a sophisticated language and many English speakers would use French words or phrases to sound more cultured.
The use of “pardon my French” in popular media is well-documented. It is often used as a preface to curses and insults, and for comedic effect. The earliest known written record wherein this phrase was used was in the 1830 edition of The Lady’s Magazine.
Nov 16, 2016 · The phrase (if you’ll) excuse (or pardon) my French is used as an apology for swearing. ORIGIN. The current sense seems to derive from an actual apology for speaking French. (It is therefore unnecessary to invoke the centuries-old adversarial relationship between the English and the French.)
Mar 11, 2015 · The phrase ‘excuse/pardon my French’ has been used to excuse the speaker’s profanity for years, and is even heard in popular television and film franchises. But just where did this strange phrase come from? The rivalry between England and France is no well-kept secret.
