In ancient novels, romances and films about pre-revolutionary life, there are expressions that are not characteristic of the speech of modern people. They delight the ear with their melodious power, sonority and courtesy. “Allow me to recommend you ...”, “Do not deign ...”, “Do not blame me ...” These phrases caress the ear against the background of completely different neologisms and revolutions (“cool”, “I go like this ...”), which seem very modern to someone and fashionable, but in fact mutilating our language.
What does the court have to do with it?
With all the great sound of old-fashioned expressions, today not everyone understands their meaning. "Do not blame me" - what is it? A call to what? The simplest morphological analysis shows that the root “court” in combination with the prefix “dem-” (stands before the deaf consonant “c”) indicates the absence of a trial of someone or someone’s actions. In addition, it should be borne in mind that the word “judge” is applicable not only to the legal process, but also to simple reflection, deliberation of some circumstances.
Twice no
The same root has the word “reason”, which means an aloud analysis of the situation. “Not” and “demon-” mutually form a double negation characteristic of the Russian language. Thus, the expression “do not blame”, expressed in a humorous and sometimes serious form, is nothing more than a call to think, reason, understand and, of course, excuse me as a result. Indeed, it is understanding that leads to the forgiveness of all the wrongs that are imaginary and really took place.
Ironic meaning
Like almost any other phrase, the phrase “do not blame me” can be used not only as a serious request for an apology, but also in a figuratively ironic sense. A strict teacher could say so, picking up rods (in the old days corporal punishment was considered quite commonplace). A successful partner in a card game also sometimes could ask his less successful buddies on the oman table 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 treat,” said the generous and hospitable hosts, inviting them to a beautifully served table and laden with delicious dishes. This showed respect for the dear guests, who, as implied, are accustomed to not such delicacies. Having shown rare cordiality, they apologized for the lack of attention paid to relatives and friends at the time of their departure. And there were many other situations when asked not to blame.
Can this expression be used today? If it’s right and right, then why not? Old-fashioned gallantry is said to be back in fashion.