In old novels, romances and films about pre-revolutionary life, there are expressions that are not typical for the speech of modern people. They delight the ear with their melodious degree, sonority and courtesy. “Let me recommend to you …”, “Would you please …”, “Do not blame me …” These phrases caress the ear against the background of completely different neologisms and turns (“cool”, “I’m going like this …”), which seem to someone very modern and fashionable, but in fact crippling our tongue.
What does the court have to do with it?
For all the great sounding of old-fashioned expressions, today not everyone understands their meaning. "Don't blame me" - what is it? Call for what? The simplest morphological analysis shows that the root "judgment" in combination with the prefix "bes-" (before the deaf consonant "s") means the absence of judgment over someone or someone's actions. In addition, it should be taken into account that the word “judge” is applicable not only to the legal process, but also to simple reflection, consideration of some circumstances.
Double negative
The word “reason” has the same root, meaningan aloud analysis of the situation that has arisen. "Not" and "bes-" mutually form a double negation, characteristic of the Russian language. Thus, the expression “do not blame me”, expressed in a joking and sometimes serious form, is nothing more than a call to think, judge, understand and, of course, apologize as a result. After all, it is understanding that leads to the forgiveness of all faults, imaginary and really taking place.
Ironic meaning
Like almost any other phrase, the expression "do not blame me" can be used not only as a serious request for an apology, but also in a figuratively ironic sense. So a strict teacher could say, picking up a rod (in the old days, corporal punishment was considered quite common). A successful card game partner could also sometimes ask his less successful card-table friends for forgiveness for his luck in winning. But more often than not, this phrase was used seriously.
And today
"Do not blame me for a modest meal," said the generous and hospitable hosts, inviting them to a table perfectly served and laden with delicious dishes. This showed respect for dear guests, who, as it was implied, were accustomed to not such delicacies. Showing rare cordiality, they apologized for the lack of attention paid to relatives and friends at the moment of their departure. And there were many other situations where they were asked not to blame.
Can this expression be used today? If it's in place and right, thenwhy not? Old-fashioned gallantry is said to be back in fashion.
