Signification
A polite way to interrupt or ask for attention, followed by an apology for the interruption.
Contexte culturel
Personal space in Korea is often smaller than in Western countries, especially in cities like Seoul. However, verbal acknowledgment of an intrusion is highly valued. Using this phrase makes physical closeness acceptable. The phrase reflects the 'Five Relationships' of Confucianism, emphasizing the respect due to strangers and elders. It maintains social harmony (Inhwa). In modern Korean offices, 'Kkondae' (condescending older people) culture is being challenged, but the use of polite language like this remains a standard professional requirement for all ages. While 'Jeogiyo' is common in casual restaurants, using '실례지만, 죄송합니다' in a department store or luxury hotel will get you much better service.
The Slight Bow
Always accompany this phrase with a slight (15-degree) bow of the head. It doubles the perceived politeness.
Don't Overuse
If you say it 10 times in one minute, you'll sound nervous or suspicious. Use it once to open the interaction.
Signification
A polite way to interrupt or ask for attention, followed by an apology for the interruption.
The Slight Bow
Always accompany this phrase with a slight (15-degree) bow of the head. It doubles the perceived politeness.
Don't Overuse
If you say it 10 times in one minute, you'll sound nervous or suspicious. Use it once to open the interaction.
The 'Trailing Off' Technique
In spoken Korean, people often say '실례지만...' and wait for the other person to look up before finishing the sentence. It's very natural.
Eye Contact
Avoid intense eye contact while saying the apology part; looking slightly down shows more humility.
Teste-toi
Fill in the blank to complete the polite interruption.
실례______, 죄송합니다. 길 좀 물어볼게요.
'-지만' is the correct connective particle meaning 'but' in this polite formula.
Match the phrase to the correct situation.
When should you use '실례지만, 죄송합니다'?
This phrase is designed for polite interactions with strangers or superiors.
Complete the dialogue in a professional setting.
Learner: 실례지만, 죄송합니다. 부장님... Boss: 네, 무슨 일이에요? Learner: ___________
In a formal setting, you should follow the polite opening with a polite request using honorifics.
Which of the following is the most formal way to interrupt someone?
Choose the best option:
'실례지만, 죄송합니다' is the highest level of formality among the choices.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Politeness Levels of 'Excuse Me'
Banque d exercices
4 exercices실례______, 죄송합니다. 길 좀 물어볼게요.
'-지만' is the correct connective particle meaning 'but' in this polite formula.
When should you use '실례지만, 죄송합니다'?
This phrase is designed for polite interactions with strangers or superiors.
Learner: 실례지만, 죄송합니다. 부장님... Boss: 네, 무슨 일이에요? Learner: ___________
In a formal setting, you should follow the polite opening with a polite request using honorifics.
Choose the best option:
'실례지만, 죄송합니다' is the highest level of formality among the choices.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
12 questionsYes, but adding '죄송합니다' makes it much softer and more sincere, especially if you are asking for a favor.
Yes, it's very polite. However, in a loud BBQ place, a simple '저기요!' is more practical.
Then this phrase is perfect. It shows you have excellent manners and respect for your elders.
Yes, it's a great way to start an email to someone you don't know well.
'죄송' is much more formal and respectful. '미안' is for friends and equals.
Literally, yes. You are acknowledging that your interruption is a form of bad manners.
You can say '아, 네. 괜찮습니다' (Oh, yes. It's okay) or '무슨 일이세요?' (What's the matter?)
They use similar forms, but '실례합니다' is more common there than the double-phrase.
Usually, just '죄송합니다' is enough for a bump. '실례지만' is for when you want to *start* an interaction.
In a hurry, just say '잠시만요' (Jamsimanyo).
It represents a natural pause in speech between the 'excuse' and the 'apology.'
No, it is completely gender-neutral.
Expressions liées
실례합니다
similarExcuse me
죄송합니다
builds onI am sorry
잠시만요
similarJust a moment
말씀 좀 여쭙겠습니다
specialized formI have a question for you (honorific)
미안합니다
similarI am sorry
저기요
contrastExcuse me / Hey there
