excuse you

English

Etymology

Late 20th century; modelled on excuse me as used to apologize.

Phrase

excuse you

  1. (US, Canada) An indignant response to an individual who has behaved rudely or insolently and has failed to apologize.
    • 2007, Gary Smiley, Seasons of Liberty, page 19:
      Finally, the girl managed to utter, “Well, excuse you,” and turned to leave. George fumbled for words. “Wait. Don't go,” he pleaded. “Please, allow me to apologize. Can I, uh... buy you a Coke, or something?”
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