• 04 Jul 2025
• بواسطة stuff

How to Say Sorry in Different Languages: 20 Ways to Apologize

How to Say Sorry in Different Languages: 20 Ways to Apologize

Apologies are a universal human experience, and being able to say sorry in another language is a simple yet meaningful way to show respect and understanding. Whether you're travelling, working with international colleagues, or building relationships across cultures, knowing how to apologise in different languages can be invaluable. Here are 20 ways to say “sorry” around the world:

1. English

• "I'm sorry"

• A versatile phrase used in formal and informal settings to express regret or sympathy.

2. Spanish

• "Lo siento"

• A heartfelt expression of regret. You can also say "Perdón" for a lighter apology.

3. French

• "Je suis désolé(e)"

• Commonly used for formal and sincere apologies.

4. German

• "Es tut mir leid"

• A polite way to express regret or sorrow.

5. Mandarin Chinese

• "Duìbùqǎ" (对不起)

• A formal way to apologize. For minor mistakes, you can say "bàoqiàn" (抱歉).

6. Japanese

• "Gomen nasai" (ごめんなさい)

• A polite and commonly used apology.

7. Korean

• "Mianhamnida" (미안합니다)

• Used in formal situations. For casual settings, "mianhae" (미안해) works.

8. Portuguese

• "Desculpe"

• Suitable for general apologies. "Sinto muito" is more formal and expresses deeper regret.

9. Russian

• "Izvinite" (Извините)

• Formal and respectful. For informal settings, use "Izvini" (Извини).

10. Arabic

• "ʹAfwan" (عفواً)

• A general term for apologizing. "Ana âsif" (أنا آسف) is more formal.

11. Hindi

• "Maaf kijiye" (माफ कीजिए)

• A polite and formal apology.

12. Italian

• "Mi dispiace"

• Expresses regret in both formal and informal settings.

13. Swahili

• "Samahani"

• Commonly used for apologies or to ask for forgiveness.

14. Turkish

• "Özür dilerim"

• A formal way to apologize. "Pardon" is also used in casual contexts.

15. Bengali

• "Ami dukkhito" (আমি দুখ্খিত)

• A formal and heartfelt apology.

16. Dutch

• "Het spijt me"

• A formal expression of regret. "Sorry" is widely understood in casual settings.

17. Greek

• "Signómi" (Συγνώμη)

• Used for both formal and informal apologies.

18. Thai

• "K̽ho̽ thot" (ขอโทษ)

• A polite way to apologize. Often accompanied by a wai gesture.

19. Vietnamese

• "Xin lỗi"

• A formal and respectful way to express regret.

20. Tagalog (Filipino)

• "Pasensya na"

• Used to apologize for minor inconveniences. For deeper apologies, say "Patawad."