Meaning
Used to apologize or get attention.
Cultural Background
In Germany, it is considered rude to push past someone without saying anything. A quick 'Entschuldigung' or 'Darf ich mal?' is mandatory in crowded spaces like trains. In Austria, you might hear 'Gestatten Sie?' as a very formal way to say 'Excuse me' or 'Allow me to pass'. In German texting (WhatsApp), 'Entschuldigung' is often shortened to 'Sry' or 'Entschuldige' is used as 'Sry' among friends.
The 'Sch' Sound
Make sure to round your lips for the 'sch' sound to sound like a native.
Don't Over-apologize
Germans don't say 'sorry' as much as English speakers. Only say it if you actually did something wrong or need something.
Meaning
Used to apologize or get attention.
The 'Sch' Sound
Make sure to round your lips for the 'sch' sound to sound like a native.
Don't Over-apologize
Germans don't say 'sorry' as much as English speakers. Only say it if you actually did something wrong or need something.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank to ask for the way to the museum.
________, wie komme ich zum Museum?
You use 'Entschuldigung' to start a question with a stranger.
Match the phrase to the situation.
You bump into someone at the supermarket.
A quick 'Entschuldigung' is the standard reaction to a bump.
Which is the most formal way to say 'Excuse me'?
Select the formal version:
Adding 'Sie' and 'bitte' makes the phrase very formal and polite.
Complete the dialogue.
A: ________, ist hier noch frei? B: Ja, klar!
This is the polite way to ask if a seat is taken.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
When to say Entschuldigung
Attention
- • Asking for time
- • Asking for directions
- • Calling a waiter
Accidents
- • Bumping into someone
- • Sneezing
- • Being late
Practice Bank
4 exercises________, wie komme ich zum Museum?
You use 'Entschuldigung' to start a question with a stranger.
You bump into someone at the supermarket.
A quick 'Entschuldigung' is the standard reaction to a bump.
Select the formal version:
Adding 'Sie' and 'bitte' makes the phrase very formal and polite.
A: ________, ist hier noch frei? B: Ja, klar!
This is the polite way to ask if a seat is taken.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsYes, 'Sorry' is very common, especially in cities and among younger people. However, 'Entschuldigung' is always safer and more polite.
It is a noun ({die|f} Entschuldigung). The verb is 'entschuldigen'.
'Verzeihung' is slightly more formal and literally means 'forgiveness'. 'Entschuldigung' is the standard everyday word.
Related Phrases
Verzeihung
synonymPardon / Forgiveness
Es tut mir leid
similarI'm sorry
Wie bitte?
specialized formPardon? / What?
