The Archive

Etymology Journal · L

Let me squeeze by ya real quick

Meaning

Used when navigating a crowded area where you have to physically condense your body to fit between two objects or people. It implies you are trying to be as unobtrusive as possible.

Deferential, helpful

Used in a sentence

  • Excuse me, let me squeeze by ya real quick.
  • The aisle is a bit tight, let me squeeze by ya real quick.
  • Sorry, let me squeeze by ya real quick so I can reach the salt.

The backstory

This is a quintessential American retail phrase, likely born from the frustration of narrow grocery aisles. It serves to diffuse tension in a crowded room.

Heard in

Midwest

Vibe check