对不起
duìbuqǐ
In Chinese, "I apologize" is translated as 对不起 (duìbuqǐ).
The phrase 对不起 is a polite and common way to say "I apologize" or "I am sorry" to express regret for a mistake or wrongdoing.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, 对不起 means "cannot face" or "cannot stand up to," implying that one's actions have made it difficult to look the other person in the eye.
Which one should you use?
对不起 is used for more significant mistakes or when expressing genuine regret. In contrast, 不好意思 is used for minor inconveniences or social awkwardness.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Hong Kong, the Cantonese phrase 唔好意思 is commonly used for apologies. In Macau, the phrase 不好意思 is widely understood and used.
How does it change in a sentence?
In Chinese, the subject "I" (我 wǒ) is often omitted in the phrase 对不起, as the apology itself implies the speaker is the one apologizing.
How do you pronounce it?
duìbuqǐ
When do people say it?
The most common response to 对不起 is 没关系, which means "it doesn't matter" or "it's okay".
Did you know?
- In many Chinese social circles, apologizing too frequently with 对不起 can actually make you seem less confident or even insincere, as over-apologizing can disrupt the 'face' or social standing of both parties.
- The term 对不起 can be used as an adjective to describe someone who has let another person down, such as saying a person is 'sorry' or 'unworthy' of their partner's kindness.
- While 对不起 is a general apology, Chinese has a specific word 抱歉 used primarily in formal writing or professional settings to express a sense of 'holding' a regret in the heart.
Examples in context
- 对不起，请原谅我的错误。I apologize, please forgive my mistake.
- 不好意思，我迟到了。I apologize, I'm late.
- 抱歉，我忘了买生日礼物。I'm sorry, I forgot to buy a birthday gift.
- 对不起，我迟到了。Duìbuqǐ, wǒ chídào le.I apologize, I am late.
- 对不起，我忘了这件事。Duìbuqǐ, wǒ wàngle zhè jiàn shì.I apologize, I forgot about this matter.
- 真的很对不起，请原谅我。Zhēn de hěn duìbuqǐ, qǐng yuánliàng wǒ.I am truly sorry, please forgive me.
Example conversation
Wei accidentally spilled water on Jiayi's book.
- 佳怡 Jiayi我的书湿了。Wǒ de shū shī le.My book is wet.
- 伟 Wei对不起，佳怡，我不是故意的。Duìbuqǐ, Jiāyí, wǒ bùshì gùyì de.I apologize, Jiayi, I didn't do it on purpose.
- 佳怡 Jiayi没关系，但是要小心点。Méiguānxì, dànshì yào xiǎoxīn diǎn.It's okay, but please be more careful.
- 伟 Wei我知道了，下次我会注意的。Wǒ zhīdào le, xiàcì wǒ huì zhùyì de.I understand, I will be careful next time.
