Entschuldigung für die Störung
The English phrase 'sorry for taking your time' can be expressed in German as Entschuldigung für die Störung.
Entschuldigung für die Störung is the standard way to apologize for interrupting someone or taking up their time in German.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, the phrase translates to 'Apology for the disturbance' rather than 'taking your time.'
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Entschuldigung für die Störung is appropriate for formal or professional settings, such as approaching a stranger or a colleague. While this is a noun-based apology, using the verb stören (to disturb) in a clause is a common alternative, such as Sorry, dass ich dich/Sie störe.
Did you know?
- The word Entschuldigung literally translates to 'un-guilt-ing', derived from 'Schuld', which means 'guilt' or 'debt'.
- If you were to say you are 'taking time' literally in German, it might sound like you are physically stealing or seizing moments, rather than just being a nuisance.
- The word Störung is a linguistic cousin to the English word 'stir', as both stem from the idea of moving or agitating something.
Examples in context
- Entschuldigung für die Störung, aber haben Sie kurz Zeit?Sorry for the interruption, but do you have a moment?
- Entschuldigung für die Störung, ich habe eine Frage.Sorry for the interruption, I have a question.
- Entschuldigung für die Störung, ich wollte nur kurz etwas sagen.Sorry for the interruption, I just wanted to say something quickly.
Example conversation
Julia approaches Lukas at his desk in an office to ask a quick question.
- JuliaEntschuldigung für die Störung, Lukas, hast du kurz Zeit?Sorry for the interruption, Lukas, do you have a moment?
- LukasKein Problem, Julia. Worum geht es denn?No problem, Julia. What is it about?
- JuliaIch brauche nur schnell Hilfe bei diesem Dokument.I just need help with this document quickly.
- LukasGerne, ich schaue es mir sofort an.Gladly, I will look at it immediately.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Entschuldigung, Störung, die, für, CC BY-SA 4.0.
