How to say "Excuse me" in Chinese

In Chinese culture, politeness is deeply tied to hierarchy, context, and relationship. The phrase 对不起 (duìbuqǐ) is a general-purpose apology and attention-getter, but its tone shifts dramatically depending on who you’re addressing. It’s softer and more casual than the formal 抱歉 (bàoqiàn), which carries stronger regret. Beginners should default to 对不起 in most everyday situations—it’s versatile, widely understood, and avoids over-apologizing in contexts where a simple acknowledgment suffices.

1. To get someone’s attention politely (e.g., in a shop or on the street)

   • 对不起, 请问洗手间在哪里？
     Excuse me, where is the restroom?
   • 对不起, 这个多少钱？
     Excuse me, how much is this?

2. To apologize for a minor mistake or bumping into someone

   • 对不起, 我踩到你的脚了！
     Excuse me, I stepped on your foot!
   • 对不起, 不好意思迟到了。
     Excuse me, sorry for being late.

3. To politely interrupt or pass by someone in a crowded space

   • 对不起, 借过一下。
     Excuse me, let me pass through.
   • 对不起, 能帮我一下吗？
     Excuse me, can you help me?

4. To a superior or elder (use with caution; softer tone or alternative phrases preferred) While 对不起 is technically correct, it can sound too casual to elders or bosses. A gentler approach is to pair it with a respectful title or use 抱歉 (bàoqiàn) instead:

   • 对不起, 打扰您一下，请问这个怎么用？
     Excuse me, may I trouble you—how do I use this?
   • 抱歉, 我可能理解错了您的话。
     Excuse me, I may have misunderstood you.

5. In written or formal contexts (e.g., emails, notices) For formal settings, 抱歉 (bàoqiàn) is more appropriate. 对不起 can feel too informal in writing unless paired with other polite structures:

   • 抱歉打扰您，但能否请您再解释一次？
     Excuse me for disturbing you, but could you please explain again?

👉 Most useful for daily life: Memorize 对不起 (duìbuqǐ) first—it’s the Swiss Army knife of apologies and attention-getters. Pair it with a smile and slight bow when addressing strangers or elders to soften the tone. Save 抱歉 (bàoqiàn) for situations where you truly regret an error or need to address someone of higher status.

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