Meaning
A simple word used to express regret or apology.
Cultural Background
In France, apologizing is a sign of social awareness. It is expected in professional and personal settings. Quebecois French often uses 'Désolé' similarly, but 'Pardon' is heard more frequently in public spaces.
Gender Agreement
Always remember to add an 'e' if you are female. It's a key marker of French grammar.
Don't over-apologize
Using 'désolé' too much can make you sound unsure of yourself.
Meaning
A simple word used to express regret or apology.
Gender Agreement
Always remember to add an 'e' if you are female. It's a key marker of French grammar.
Don't over-apologize
Using 'désolé' too much can make you sound unsure of yourself.
Add 'vraiment'
Saying 'Je suis vraiment désolé' adds a layer of sincerity that native speakers appreciate.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence: Je suis ____ (sorry).
Je suis ____.
Both are correct depending on the gender of the speaker.
Which is correct for a woman?
Choose the correct form.
Women add an 'e' for agreement.
Respond to: 'Tu es en retard !'
What do you say?
Désolé is the correct apology for being late.
When do you use 'Désolé'?
Select the best scenario.
Désolé is exclusively for regret.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesJe suis ____.
Both are correct depending on the gender of the speaker.
Choose the correct form.
Women add an 'e' for agreement.
What do you say?
Désolé is the correct apology for being late.
Select the best scenario.
Désolé is exclusively for regret.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsIt is neutral. It works in almost all situations.
You can just say 'Désolé', but 'Je suis désolé' is more complete.
Yes, but for serious errors, use 'Je vous présente mes excuses'.
It's for feminine gender agreement.
No, 'Pardon' is for interruptions.
Day-zo-lay.
Related Phrases
Pardon
similarExcuse me / Sorry
Excusez-moi
similarExcuse me
Je suis navré
specialized formI am very sorry
