Sorry in Chinese Language: How to Apologize the Right Way

🙇‍♀️ Saying Sorry in Chinese Language: Your Complete Guide

Whether you’re learning Mandarin or visiting China, mastering the word “sorry” can go a long way. Apologies in Chinese are more than just a translation—they carry cultural weight, tone, and etiquette.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to say sorry in Chinese language across different situations—from polite apologies to heartfelt regret. You’ll also understand the right tone, timing, and cultural expectations to avoid awkward missteps.

📚 The Main Word for “Sorry” in Chinese

Let’s start with the most common expression:

对不起 (duì bù qǐ) – I’m sorry

• ✅ Use when: You made a mistake, hurt someone, or caused trouble.
• 🧠 Literal meaning: “Cannot face (you)”
• 🎯 Tone: Serious and formal

Example:

对不起，我迟到了。
(Duì bù qǐ, wǒ chí dào le.)
Sorry, I’m late.

This is the safest way to apologize when you’re unsure which expression to use.

😅 Lighter Ways to Say Sorry

Sometimes, a formal apology feels too much. For casual situations, try these:

不好意思 (bù hǎo yì si) – Excuse me / Sorry

• ✅ Use when: Bumping into someone, interrupting, or being a bit late.
• 😌 Tone: Polite but soft
• 🧠 Literal meaning: “Feel embarrassed”

Example:

不好意思，我打扰你了。
(Bù hǎo yì si, wǒ dǎ rǎo nǐ le.)
Sorry to bother you.

抱歉 (bào qiàn) – Apologize / Regret

• ✅ Use when: You need to be polite but distant—formal emails, announcements, etc.
• 🧠 Literal meaning: “Hold regret”
• 🧍‍♀️ Tone: Professional

Example:

抱歉，我们今天不营业。
(Bào qiàn, wǒ men jīn tiān bù yíng yè.)
Sorry, we’re closed today.

🧠 Apology Vocabulary to Know

Here are some key words and phrases to recognize or use with apologies:

Using these expressions can strengthen the sincerity of your apology.

💬 Real-Life Apology Scenarios in Chinese

✈️ Missing an appointment:

对不起，我忘记了我们的约会。
(Duì bù qǐ, wǒ wàng jì le wǒ men de yuē huì.)
Sorry, I forgot about our meeting.

📞 Answering a call in a meeting:

不好意思，我需要接个电话。
(Bù hǎo yì si, wǒ xū yào jiē gè diàn huà.)
Sorry, I need to take this call.

🛒 Bumping into someone in a store:

不好意思！
(Bù hǎo yì si!)
Sorry!

📝 Professional cancellation:

抱歉，会议需要重新安排。
(Bào qiàn, huì yì xū yào chóng xīn ān pái.)
Sorry, the meeting needs to be rescheduled.

🧭 Cultural Tips for Apologizing in Chinese

• 🤝 Apologize quickly. Delaying can make things worse.
• 🧍‍♂️ Keep body language polite. A slight bow or nod shows sincerity.
• 🧏‍♀️ Sometimes sorry isn’t said aloud. A kind action or respectful tone can substitute.
• 🙅 Avoid over-apologizing. It might seem insincere or exaggerated.

🧩 Practice Quiz: Which Apology Should You Use?

Choose the best phrase for each situation:

1. You’re 10 minutes late for lunch with a friend.
   A) 抱歉
   B) 不好意思
   C) 对不起
   Answer: C

2. You bump into someone while walking.
   A) 抱歉
   B) 不好意思
   C) 对不起
   Answer: B

3. You canceled a business meeting last minute.
   A) 抱歉
   B) 对不起
   C) 没关系
   Answer: A

❓ FAQ: Sorry in Chinese Language

Q: Is “对不起” too strong for small mistakes?

It can be. Use “不好意思” for lighter moments.

Q: Can I say “没关系” if someone says sorry to me?

Yes! It means “It’s okay” or “No problem.” A kind way to respond.

Q: Are apologies common in Chinese culture?

Yes, but tone and delivery matter more than the words themselves.

✨ Final Thoughts: Mastering the Art of “Sorry” in Chinese

Saying sorry in Chinese language is more than just using the right word—it’s about tone, timing, and social awareness. Whether you’re in a business meeting, chatting with friends, or making a small mistake in public, using the appropriate apology can show respect and build stronger relationships.

Practice these phrases aloud, and try them in daily situations. With time, saying 对不起 or 不好意思 will come naturally—and make your Chinese sound more fluent and thoughtful.

🗣️ Want to practice in real time?
Try Avatalks, where you can speak to an AI tutor who helps you master tones, pronunciation, and real-life conversation—including apologies!