How to say “Sorry” in Chinese

When you use it

Covers both a real apology and getting someone's attention in a crowd.

Use 对不起。 in everyday situations. Greetings, thanks and the small words you use all day.

Common questions

How do you say "Sorry" in Chinese?

"Sorry" in Chinese is 对不起。 — written in pinyin as Duìbuqǐ.. It is a everyday phrase you would use in China.

What does 对不起。 mean in Chinese?

对不起。 (Duìbuqǐ.) means "Sorry". Broken down word by word: 对不起 (duìbuqǐ) means "sorry / excuse me".

When would you use "Sorry" in Chinese?

Covers both a real apology and getting someone's attention in a crowd. You would say 对不起。 (Duìbuqǐ.) in everyday conversation.

More Everyday phrases

• 没关系。It's okay. / You're welcome.
• 再见。Goodbye.
• 你好吗？How are you?
• 我叫大卫。My name is David.