What are common Chinese phrases for polite apologies

Common Chinese phrases for polite apologies often involve expressions that show humility, respect, and the intention to soften the impact of the offense to save face. Such phrases include:

• 对不起 (duìbuqǐ) – “Sorry,” a basic and commonly used apology.
• 不好意思 (bù hǎoyìsi) – “Excuse me” or “I feel embarrassed,” often used for minor inconveniences.
• 请原谅 (qǐng yuánliàng) – “Please forgive me,” a more formal and respectful apology.
• 失礼了 (shīlǐ le) – “I was rude,” acknowledging a breach of etiquette.
• 抱歉 (bàoqiàn) – “Apologies,” a polite and somewhat formal term.
• Expressions that avoid direct admission of guilt to save face, such as explanations or mitigating the offense, are common.
• Sometimes apologies include phrases that express embarrassment or self-reflection, such as 羞愧 and 反省.
• Chinese culture values indirect ways of apologizing to reduce emotional tension and maintain harmony.

These phrases reflect a cultural preference for maintaining face and harmony in social interactions, often using linguistic strategies that soften the directness of an apology while still expressing sincerity and respect. ^{2, 3, 11}

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