A History of Short Words

From the New York Times Crossword Puzzle

MAYI

Fri, 26 Sep '25
"Is this seat taken ...?"
Wed, 16 Oct '24
"Is that OK with you?"
Fri, 9 Aug '24
Question that's often a directive to step aside
Sun, 17 Dec '23
"Allow me to demonstrate?"
Sun, 29 Jan '23
Request for permission
Wed, 21 Dec '22
"Do you mind?"