Introduction
Saying “excuse me” correctly is very important in Chinese. Just like in English, the phrase can have different meanings depending on the situation. You might use it to get someone’s attention, apologize for a small mistake, interrupt politely, or ask someone to repeat something. However, Chinese has several expressions for these situations, and choosing the right one shows respect and cultural awareness.
If you use the wrong phrase, it may sound too casual, too direct, or even slightly rude. In formal situations — such as business meetings, speaking with elders, or talking to strangers — it is especially important to choose polite language. In this guide, you will learn eight formal and polite ways to say “excuse me” in Chinese, when to use them, and how to pronounce them correctly.
1. 请问 (Qǐng wèn)
Meaning: “May I ask…?”
This is one of the most common and polite ways to say “excuse me” when asking a question. It literally means “please ask,” and it is appropriate in both formal and semi-formal situations.
请问，洗手间在哪里？
Qǐng wèn, xǐshǒujiān zài nǎlǐ?
Excuse me, where is the restroom?
Use this phrase when asking strangers for directions, information, or assistance.
2. 劳驾 (Láo jià)
Meaning: “Excuse me” (to request a small favor)
This phrase is more formal and traditional. It suggests that you are “troubling” someone for help, which shows humility and respect.
劳驾，请帮我一下。
Láo jià, qǐng bāng wǒ yíxià.
Excuse me, please help me for a moment.
This expression is often heard in service situations or when speaking politely to strangers.
3. 借过 (Jiè guò)
Meaning: “Excuse me” (to pass by)
Use this phrase when you need to move past someone in a crowded space. It literally means “borrow the way.”
借过一下。
Jiè guò yíxià.
Excuse me, let me pass.
This is polite and commonly used in public places such as buses, trains, or markets.
4. 打扰一下 (Dǎrǎo yíxià)
Meaning: “Sorry to disturb you”
This phrase is slightly more formal and is used when interrupting someone or asking for their time.
打扰一下，我可以问个问题吗？
Dǎrǎo yíxià, wǒ kěyǐ wèn ge wèntí ma?
Excuse me, may I ask a question?
This is appropriate in professional settings, classrooms, or business meetings.
5. 不好意思 (Bù hǎo yìsi)
Meaning: “I’m embarrassed” / “Sorry”
This is a very common polite phrase that can mean “excuse me,” “sorry,” or “I’m shy.” While slightly less formal than others, it is still respectful and widely used.
不好意思，我迟到了。
Bù hǎo yìsi, wǒ chídào le.
Excuse me, I’m late.
It is suitable in both social and professional environments.
6. 对不起 (Duì bu qǐ)
Meaning: “I’m sorry”
This phrase expresses a stronger apology. Use it when you have made a mistake or caused inconvenience.
对不起，我打错电话了。
Duì bu qǐ, wǒ dǎ cuò diànhuà le.
Excuse me, I dialed the wrong number.
It is more serious than 不好意思 and should be used when a real apology is needed.
7. 失礼了 (Shī lǐ le)
Meaning: “Pardon my rudeness”
This is a very formal and traditional expression. It literally means “I have been impolite.” It is not commonly used in daily conversation but may appear in formal speeches or written language.
失礼了，请允许我介绍自己。
Shī lǐ le, qǐng yǔnxǔ wǒ jièshào zìjǐ.
Excuse me, please allow me to introduce myself.
This is best used in highly formal contexts.
8. 麻烦您 (Máfan nín)
Meaning: “Sorry to trouble you” (very polite)
This phrase includes 您 (nín), the respectful form of “you.” It shows high respect toward the listener.
麻烦您签个字。
Máfan nín qiān ge zì.
Excuse me, please sign your name.
This is suitable when speaking to elders, customers, or superiors.
Comparison Table
| Phrase | Pinyin | Best Used For | Formality Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| 请问 | Qǐng wèn | Asking questions | Polite/Formal |
| 劳驾 | Láo jià | Requesting small favors | Formal |
| 借过 | Jiè guò | Passing through crowds | Neutral/Polite |
| 打扰一下 | Dǎrǎo yíxià | Interrupting politely | Formal |
| 不好意思 | Bù hǎo yìsi | Light apology | Polite |
| 对不起 | Duì bu qǐ | Serious apology | Formal/Serious |
| 失礼了 | Shī lǐ le | Very formal apology | Very Formal |
| 麻烦您 | Máfan nín | Respectful requests | Very Polite |
Quick Summary: Key Takeaways
- Use 请问 when asking polite questions.
- Use 打扰一下 when interrupting someone.
- Use 借过 when moving past someone.
- Use 不好意思 for small mistakes or light apologies.
- Use 对不起 for serious apologies.
- Add 您 to show extra respect.
- Formal settings require more careful word choice.
Conclusion
Learning how to say “excuse me” properly in Chinese is more than just memorizing vocabulary. It helps you show respect, understand cultural differences, and communicate more naturally. Each phrase has a specific purpose, from asking a simple question to offering a serious apology.
By mastering these eight formal expressions, you will feel more confident in conversations, whether you are traveling, studying, or doing business in a Chinese-speaking environment. Practice using them in real situations, and you will quickly sound more polite and professional.