Meaning
A formal apology or way to get attention.
Cultural Background
Lithuanians value 'personal space' highly. Using 'Atleiskite' before asking a question is not just polite; it's a necessary signal that you are a respectful person. In meetings, 'Atleiskite' is used to soften a contradiction. It shows you are attacking the idea, not the person. Older generations might find 'Atleiskite' more natural than the more modern 'Atsiprašau' in formal settings, as it feels more traditional. Among Gen Z in Vilnius, 'Atleiskite' is rarely heard in bars; it's almost exclusively for 'official' business or elders.
The 'Bus Rule'
If you are on a bus and need to get out, say 'Atleiskite, aš išlipu' loudly and clearly. People will move immediately.
Don't over-apologize
Lithuanians are direct. One 'Atleiskite' is enough. Repeating it makes you look suspicious or overly nervous.
Meaning
A formal apology or way to get attention.
The 'Bus Rule'
If you are on a bus and need to get out, say 'Atleiskite, aš išlipu' loudly and clearly. People will move immediately.
Don't over-apologize
Lithuanians are direct. One 'Atleiskite' is enough. Repeating it makes you look suspicious or overly nervous.
Eye Contact
When saying 'Atleiskite' to a stranger, a brief moment of eye contact is polite, but don't stare.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct form to address a stranger on the street.
________, kur yra bankas?
You must use the formal '-ite' form with a stranger.
Fill in the preposition for 'Sorry for the mistake'.
Atleiskite ____ klaidą.
The preposition 'už' is used with 'atleisti' to indicate the reason.
Match the phrase to the situation.
You bumped into an elderly lady in the supermarket.
'Atleiskite' is respectful, and 'ponia' means 'lady'.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Atleiskite, ar čia laisva? B: Taip, ________.
'Prašom' (Please/You're welcome) is the standard response to a polite request.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Atleiskite vs Atsiprašau
Practice Bank
4 exercises________, kur yra bankas?
You must use the formal '-ite' form with a stranger.
Atleiskite ____ klaidą.
The preposition 'už' is used with 'atleisti' to indicate the reason.
You bumped into an elderly lady in the supermarket.
'Atleiskite' is respectful, and 'ponia' means 'lady'.
A: Atleiskite, ar čia laisva? B: Taip, ________.
'Prašom' (Please/You're welcome) is the standard response to a polite request.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, generally. 'Atleiskite' is a request for forgiveness, while 'Atsiprašau' is a statement of apology. Use 'Atleiskite' with elders or in very formal settings.
No. For condolences, use 'Priimkite mano užuojautą'. 'Atleiskite' is only for things you are personally responsible for.
Use 'Atleisk man'. Do not use 'Atleiskite' unless you are joking about being formal.
The most common response is 'Nieko tokio' (It's nothing) or 'Prašom' (Please/Go ahead).
Yes, but you should add 'Ką sakėte?' (What did you say?). 'Atleiskite, ką sakėte?'
Absolutely. 'Atleiskite už vėlyvą atsakymą' (Forgive the late reply) is a very common professional phrase.
Yes, it's a short 'e' like in 'met'. Never drop it in formal writing.
It's a common spoken contraction. It's slightly less formal but very common in daily life.
Yes, 'O, atleiskite!' is perfect for a physical bump with a stranger.
Yes, it is the primary word for 'forgive' in the Lord's Prayer in Lithuanian.
Related Phrases
Atsiprašau
similarI'm sorry / Excuse me
Dovanokite
synonymPardon me
Nieko tokio
contrastIt's nothing / No problem
Atleisk
informalForgive me (informal)
Atleisti iš darbo
specialized formTo fire from a job
