How to Say "Forgive Mykola" in Ukrainian: A Simple Grammar Rule

The correct Ukrainian phrase is "вибачити Миколі" (to forgive Mykola), using the dative case, not "вибачити Миколу" (accusative), which is a calque from Russian. The rule is based on the question "кому?" (to whom?). The mistake arises from Russian influence, where the accusative case is used. To remember the correct form, one can use the synonym "дарувати" (to grant), which also requires the dative case, as in "даруємо комусь" (we grant to someone). Additionally, while Ukrainians typically ask forgiveness "за щось" (for something), the preposition "на" is also acceptable, as in the set phrase "пробачте на слові" (pardon my word), though this usage is now considered outdated.