no offense

no offense

What I have said or am about to say is not meant to offend or insult you, even though it could be interpreted that way. No offense, but I think it may be time you cleaned up your kitchen. All I'm saying is that I think we could use some more help with the renovation. No offense, John, you've been a big help.

See also: no, offense

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2022 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

no offense

Please don't feel insulted, I don't mean to offend you, as in No offense, but I think you're mistaken. This expression, first recorded in 1829, generally accompanies a statement that could be regarded as insulting but is not meant to be, as in the example.

See also: no, offense

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

no ofˈfence

(spoken) used to say that you do not mean to upset or insult somebody by something you say or do: No offence, but I’d really like to be on my own.

See also: no, offence

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017