How to Say "Excuse Me" in Vietnamese: A Beginner’s Guide

Vietnamese culture places a strong emphasis on politeness, hierarchy, and respect—especially toward elders, strangers, or people in positions of authority. The phrase Xin lỗi (pronounced sin loy) is your go-to for apologizing or getting attention, but its usage depends on context. Unlike English, Vietnamese often combines Xin lỗi with other words to soften the tone or show deeper respect. Always pair it with a slight bow or nod when addressing someone older or in a formal setting.

When to Use "Xin lỗi"

1. To apologize for a minor mistake or inconvenience

Use this when you bump into someone, interrupt a conversation, or need to correct a small error. It’s polite and neutral.

• Xin lỗi, tôi vô ý va vào anh! "Excuse me, I accidentally bumped into you!"

• Xin lỗi, tôi quên trả sách cho chị hôm nay. "Excuse me, I forgot to return the book to you today."

2. To get someone’s attention (polite)

This is the most common way to politely interrupt or ask for help in shops, streets, or public transport. Add a slight pause after Xin lỗi to sound natural.

• Xin lỗi, cô ơi, mấy giờ tàu chạy? "Excuse me, ma’am, what time does the train leave?"

• Xin lỗi, anh có thể giúp tôi một chút không? "Excuse me, could you help me for a moment?"

3. To pass by someone in a crowded space

Vietnamese people often use Xin lỗi when squeezing through tight spots, like in markets or elevators. It’s a way to acknowledge the intrusion.

• Xin lỗi, cho tôi qua một chút! "Excuse me, let me through for a moment!"

• Xin lỗi, anh chị đi lối này nhé! "Excuse me, you two, please go this way!"

4. To show deep respect (formal situations)

In formal settings—like addressing a boss, teacher, or elderly person—combine Xin lỗi with thưa (a respectful particle) or xin phép (to ask permission). This elevates the phrase to a more deferential level.

• Thưa, xin lỗi, thầy có thể giải thích lại không ạ? "Excuse me, teacher, could you please explain again?"

• Xin phép, xin lỗi, tôi xin phép hỏi thêm một chút. "Excuse me, may I ask one more thing?"

5. To apologize sincerely (serious situations)

For bigger mistakes, add rất (very) or thành thật (sincerely) to emphasize regret. This is common in customer service or when apologizing to a superior.

• Xin lỗi, tôi rất xin lỗi vì sự chậm trễ! "I sincerely apologize for the delay!"

• Xin lỗi, thành thật xin lỗi vì đã làm phiền anh! "I sincerely apologize for disturbing you!"

Quick Cheat Sheet

👉 Most useful for daily life: Start with Xin lỗi for most situations. If you’re addressing someone older or in a formal setting, add thưa or cô/anh/chị ơi to sound more respectful. For passing by someone, a quick Xin lỗi with a nod works perfectly.