The phrase likely originated in the 18th and 19th centuries, during a time when French was considered a more refined and elegant language than English.
Here's why:
* French was the language of the upper class: During this period, French was the language of diplomacy, high society, and the arts. It was seen as a sophisticated and sophisticated language, while English was considered more vulgar and colloquial.
* English was considered rough: By contrast, English was associated with common people and was considered to be less refined.
* French swearing was seen as more polite: The phrase "pardon my French" likely arose because people felt the need to apologize for using English swear words, which were seen as more offensive than French ones.
However, the exact origin of the phrase is debated. Some argue that it stemmed from French people using English swear words, while others suggest it emerged from English speakers borrowing French expressions.
Regardless of its precise origin, the phrase "pardon my French" has become a common way for English speakers to apologize for using profanity, even though French swear words are not necessarily considered less offensive than their English counterparts.