抱歉

bàoqiàn
adjective★Beginner
◆ What It Really Means
To express regret or apology for causing inconvenience or offense.
Literal Meaning
To hold regret.
Literal Breakdown
抱to hold+歉regret
◇ Mental Image
The mental image of holding or carrying regret, emphasizing the emotional weight of the apology.
◈ When to Use
A person accidentally bumps into someone and immediately says '抱歉' to express their regret for the incident.
◉ Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, expressing regret or apology is highly valued as it shows respect and consideration for others' feelings.
formalinformal

To feel or express regret or apology for something, often for causing inconvenience, offense, or trouble to others.

我迟到了，真的很抱歉。

I'm late. I'm really sorry.

抱歉打扰了，我有事要问。

Sorry to bother you, I have something to ask.

💡

Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to express regret or apology.

Collocations

抱歉打扰Sorry to bother抱歉了I'm sorry很抱歉I'm very sorry

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

抱歉打扰phrase
Sorry to bother
很抱歉phrase
I'm very sorry

💡Pro Tip

Politeness in Chinese

In Chinese culture, saying '抱歉' is a common way to show respect and consideration, even for minor inconveniences.

⚡Gold Rule

Usage Context

Use '抱歉' when you want to express regret or apologize for something, regardless of the severity.

📖Word Origin

Composed of '抱' (bào, to hold) and '歉' (qiàn, to feel regret), literally meaning 'to hold regret.'

📝Usage Notes

Often used to express politeness and consideration for others' feelings. Can be used in both formal and informal settings.

Word Breakdown

抱
to hold
root
+
歉
regret
root
汉英词典