désolé
casual, masculine
French has little real slang for "sorry". In relaxed talk people say désolé, pardon or excuse-moi, and oups for a small slip.
Meaning: apology, casual (phrase)
Ways to say it
| French | Note |
|---|---|
| désolé | casual, masculine |
| excuse-moi | casual |
| pardon | everyday |
| oups | casual, light |
Pardon is used to get past someone or to ask someone to repeat. Oups goes with a light mistake, like dropping a pen.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
With someone you address as vous, say Excusez-moi or Je suis désolé.
How does it change in a sentence?
A woman writes désolée with a second e, but it sounds the same as désolé.
Did you know?
- The French word pardon is often used instead of "excuse me" in crowded places.
Examples in context
- Désolé, je suis en retard.Sorry, I am late.
- Pardon, je vous ai marché sur le pied.Sorry, I stepped on your foot.
- Oups, excuse-moi !Oops, sorry!
Example conversation
Maya bumps into her friend Ethan in a busy corridor.
- MayaOups, pardon !Oops, sorry!
- EthanCe n'est pas grave.It is not serious.
- MayaDésolée, je suis pressée.Sorry, I am in a hurry.
