How to say "Excuse me" in Hindi

In Hindi-speaking cultures, politeness is deeply tied to respect for hierarchy, age, and social status. The phrase माफ कीजिए (māf kījie) is a formal and universally polite way to say Excuse me, whether you are apologizing for a minor offense, seeking attention, or passing by someone. It carries a tone of humility and is appropriate in almost all situations where you need to interrupt or acknowledge a small mistake. However, it is slightly more formal than the casual माफ कीजिएगा (māf kījiegā), which is used with strangers or in service contexts. Never use माफ कीजिए with close friends or family; a simple माफ करना (māf karnā) suffices there.

1. To apologize for a minor offense or interruption Use माफ कीजिए when you bump into someone, accidentally interrupt a conversation, or need to ask for help in a formal setting.

   • माफ कीजिए, क्या आप मुझे रास्ता बता सकते हैं? Excuse me, can you tell me the way?
   • माफ कीजिए, मैंने आपका गिलास गिरा दिया। Excuse me, I dropped your glass.

2. To get someone’s attention politely When you need to speak to a stranger, elder, or someone of higher status (e.g., a shopkeeper, teacher, or boss), माफ कीजिए is the safest choice.

   • माफ कीजिए, क्या यह सीट खाली है? Excuse me, is this seat free?
   • माफ कीजिए, सर, क्या मैं आपसे एक सवाल पूछ सकता हूँ? Excuse me, sir, may I ask you a question?

3. To pass by someone in a crowded space In markets, public transport, or narrow alleys, माफ कीजिए is used to signal you are moving past without causing offense.

   • माफ कीजिए, थोड़ा हटिए, कृपया। Excuse me, please move aside a little.
   • माफ कीजिए, मैं निकल रहा हूँ। Excuse me, I’m coming through.

4. Variants for different levels of formality While माफ कीजिए is formal, you may hear or use these alternatives depending on the situation:

👉 Most useful for daily life: Memorize माफ कीजिए first. It works in 80% of situations where you need to say Excuse me politely. Save माफ करना for friends and माफ कीजिएगा for service interactions.