While learning a new language, one of the initial steps towards effective communication is mastering polite expressions. Employing “excuse me” properly in the German language can make you seem polite, prevent misunderstandings, and improve your relations with indigenous German speakers. Whether you need directions, need to interrupt someone, or apologize after knocking on someone, it is critical to understand when and how to use “excuse me” in the German language.
This tutorial will show you the various phrases used to say “excuse me” in German when employing formal or informal terms and useful substitutes. By then, you’ll be able to deal with most real-life scenarios confidently.
Common Ways to Say “Excuse Me” in German
There are a few ways to say “excuse me” in German, each applicable to certain situations and levels of formality. The following three of the most frequently used expressions:
Entschuldigung
**Translation**: “Excuse me” or “Sorry.”
How to Use: Usually used to attract someone’s attention, make a mild apology, or indicate courtesy.
Example:
*Entschuldigung, können Sie mir helfen?*
(Excuse me, can you help me?)*
Entschuldigung, ich habe Sie nicht gesehen.
(Sorry, I didn’t see you.)*
Verzeihung
**Meaning**: A slightly more formal alternative to “Excuse me” or “Pardon.”
When to Use: Usually in official or written settings and can sound a bit more old-fashioned in everyday speech.
Example:
*Verzeihung, darf ich mal durch?*
(Pardon me, may I get through?)*
Entschuldigen Sie
**Meaning**: The formal variant of “Excuse me” (literally “You excuse”).
When to Use: Ideal for encounters with strangers, particularly in workplace situations or when speaking to elders.
Example:
*Entschuldigung, bitte, ich habe eine Frage.*
(Excuse me, I have a question.)*
Quick Comparison Table
| Phrase | Meaning | Formal/Informal | Example Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entschuldigung | Excuse me / Sorry | Informal or Formal | Asking for attention, bumping into someone |
| Verzeihung | Pardon / Excuse me | Formal / Written | Asking someone to allow passage |
| Entschuldigen Sie | Excuse me (polite) | Formal | Addressing a stranger with a polite tone |
Formal vs. Informal Situations
Getting someone’s attention by bumping into them
Verzeihung
Pardon / Excuse me
Formal / Written
Asking to pass
Entschuldigen Sie
Excuse me (polite)
- Formal Contexts:
- Use “Entschuldigen Sie” or “Verzeihung.”
- Appropriate when speaking to a stranger, elder, or someone in a professional setting.
- Examples:
- *Entschuldigen Sie bitte, wissen Sie, wo der Bahnhof ist?*
- (Excuse me, do you know where the train station is?)*
- Verzeihung, können Sie mir einen Moment schenken?
- (Pardon me, may I have a moment of your time?)*
- *Entschuldigen Sie bitte, wissen Sie, wo der Bahnhof ist?*
- Informal Contexts:
- Use “Entschuldigung.”
- Perfect for casual conversations with friends, peers, or people close to your age.
- Examples:
- *Entschuldigung, ich habe dich nicht bemerkt.*
- (Sorry, I didn’t notice you.)*
- Entschuldigung, kannst du mir sagen, wo die Toilette ist?
- (Excuse me, can you tell me where the restroom is?)*
- *Entschuldigung, ich habe dich nicht bemerkt.*
Formal vs. Informal Use Table
| Situation | Formal Phrase | Informal Phrase |
|---|---|---|
| Asking for Directions | Entschuldigen Sie | Entschuldigung |
| Apologizing for Interrupting | Verzeihung | Entschuldigung |
| Accidentally bumping into someone | Entschuldigen Sie | Entschuldigung |
Practical Examples for Common Scenarios
Here’s how you can use “excuse me” in specific situations:
- Bumping into Someone
- *Entschuldigung, das war keine Absicht.*
- (Excuse me, that wasn’t on purpose.)*
- *Entschuldigung, das war keine Absicht.*
- Interrupting a Conversation
- *Entschuldigen Sie bitte, ich habe eine wichtige Frage.*
- (Excuse me, I have an urgent question.)*
- *Entschuldigen Sie bitte, ich habe eine wichtige Frage.*
- Getting Someone’s Attention
- *Entschuldigung, können Sie mir helfen?*
- (Excuse me, can you help me?)*
- *Entschuldigung, können Sie mir helfen?*
- Passing Through a Crowd
- *Darf ich mal vorbei?*
- (May I get by?)*
- *Darf ich mal vorbei?*
- Apologizing for Being Late
- *Es tut mir leid für die Verspätung. Entschuldigung!*
- (I’m sorry for being late. Excuse me!)*
- *Es tut mir leid für die Verspätung. Entschuldigung!*
Alternative Phrases to “Excuse Me” in German
While “Entschuldigung” is widely used, there are other polite phrases that might come in handy depending on the situation:
- Darf ich mal vorbei?
- **Meaning**: May I get by?
- When to Use: When trying to move through a crowded space.
- Tut mir leid.
- **Meaning**: I’m sorry.
- When to Use: For apologizing casually or lightly.
- Könnte ich bitte…?
- **Meaning**: Could I please…?
- When to Use: Politely requesting something.
- Entschuldige.
- **Meaning**: Informal “Excuse me.”
- When to Use: Casual settings with friends or peers.
FAQs
1. Can I use “Entschuldigung” in formal conversations?
Yes, “Entschuldigung” works in both formal and informal situations. However, “Entschuldigen Sie” is preferred for added politeness in formal contexts.
2. What’s the difference between “Entschuldigung” and “Verzeihung”?
“Entschuldigung” is more commonly used in daily German conversation, while “Verzeihung” is slightly more formal and less frequent.
3. Are there regional differences in how Germans say “Excuse me”?
While the standard phrases are similar across Germany, you’ll notice slight regional accents or alternatives in informal settings. Southern Germany may sometimes have unique expressions, but “Entschuldigung” is widely understood everywhere.
4. Is it rude to forget to use these phrases in Germany?
Yes, German culture appreciates politeness. Forgetting to use words like “Entschuldigung” can be seen as inconsiderate.
Practice Politeness with Confidence
Mastering how to say “excuse me” in German is an easy way to show respect and engage positively in German-speaking environments. Whether you’re navigating crowded streets, making a request, or smoothing over a small mistake, phrases like “Entschuldigung” and “Entschuldigen Sie” can make all the difference. Remember to practice these phrases regularly to build confidence and fluency.
Want to take your language skills further? Bookmark our page for more German language tips and practical guides!
BBC Languages – German – Provides a range of free materials, such as audio guides, grammar hints, and practical phrases to assist you in learning German effectively.
DW Learn German – Deutsche Welle’s free online resource offers courses, videos, and exercises for learners of all levels, from beginner through to advanced.
