Pardon/ˈpɑːrdn/ Definition 1 of 5Pro Tip 1/2Polite Apology Use 'pardon me' to apologize in a polite or formal way, especially in social situations. Pardon me for interrupting your conversation. Pro Tip 2/2Cultural Sensitivity 'Pardon' can seem overly formal in casual settings; 'sorry' or 'excuse me' might be more common. I'm sorry, could you please pass the salt?