what is an expression halfway between "excuse me" and " get out of my way"

I sometimes find the former to be too generous but the latter too brusque. Haven't been able to think of a happy medium that gets it just right.

What about a strong throat clearing noise?

I just say "sorry!" as I squeeze by whoever's in my way. As if to imply it's my fault I have somewhere to be, and they're the ones being inconvenienced as they block the sidewalk, escalator, etc.

"excuse me" works fine, you just need to change the tone.

Yes. Make it a statement instead of a request.

I don't have the guts to do anything but say 'excuse me' and I usually throw a 'please' on the end.

Just say "hot stuff, coming through" and don't look back.

A lot of good suggestions here, thank you

yancy wrote:I just say "sorry!" as I squeeze by whoever's in my way. As if to imply it's my fault I have somewhere to be, and they're the ones being inconvenienced as they block the sidewalk, escalator, etc.

I think I would enjoy this more if I was as tall as Yancy because I could pretend to be a good-natured but careless giant, wrecking havoc wherever I went.

a good "coming through!" can convey the necessary disgust while not being overtly rude

Yeah, and if you're already shelling out the "coming through" you might as well throw a "hot stuff" in at the front end for good measure.

I like "Heads up!" Preferably while running. Loud but not angry, just enthusiastic.

"Excuse me" seems to work for all situations. Just have to be more commanding with your tone.

Also action goes along with it. For example, "Excuse me" and then waiting for someone to reply/respond is too polite.

"Excuse me" without breaking stride or immediately proceeding with the action is just right. Like when you need to get to the subway turnstile or elevator. Just push through with a strong, commanding "Excuse me."

say "kick rocks" and slap them on the ass

"Yo!"

Problem with "Yo!" is that unless you get the tone just right it can bring a lot of attention to you. Turned heads, awkward glances, etc.

why should you have to even say anything?

Because eventually you're gonna bury your shoulder into the wrong guy's back and I'd rather not get choke-slammed at the Jackson station.

I came up with the concept of scrapping my foot across the floor when approaching a slow moving obstacle. Causes them to turn round and get out of the way without me speaking.