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Words Escape Me When I Try To Speak

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ara_housi | 13:41 Mon 24th Mar 2014 | Phrases & Sayings
4 Answers
I found this phrase in a rock song.
I think it means 「I want to say something but I cannot find any words to explain my mind」
Is my construction right?
And is this phrase 「words escape me」 popular among native English speakers?
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You seem have interpreted the meaning correctly. However people more usually say "Words escape me!" when (for example) they're expressing incredulity at the stupidity of someone's actions. (So Iron Maiden's used those words in a rather unusual context in the lyrics of 'Hallowed Be Thy Name'). e.g. if I was to witness someone risk their life by running...
13:53 Mon 24th Mar 2014
Yes, your interperetation of the lyric is correct.

A more common phrase in English would me 'Words fail me ...'.
I certainly know the phrase and also the similar 'words fail me'. In the context of the song it may mean as you have described but also I'd use it as being so shocked or horrified at something that I couldn't begin to think how to respond or justify.
You seem have interpreted the meaning correctly.

However people more usually say "Words escape me!" when (for example) they're expressing incredulity at the stupidity of someone's actions. (So Iron Maiden's used those words in a rather unusual context in the lyrics of 'Hallowed Be Thy Name').

e.g. if I was to witness someone risk their life by running across a busy motorway, rather than using a footbridge which would have required them to walk just a short distance further, I might turn to my companion, shake my head and say "Words escape me!"
People are struck dumb in surprise - and words escape them

It happens to me: I have to grunt loud noises and point.

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