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How to Say ‘Sorry’ in French

Pardon

par-dohn

[par-dohn]

🇫🇷 In France: [Pardon] is very common for small everyday bumps: getting past someone, brushing into them, or asking them to repeat. It often sounds lighter and quicker than a full apology.

Phrase Breakdown

Pardon

[par-dohn]

sorry / pardon

Used to apologize lightly, ask someone to repeat, or get past someone.

Example

Si je bouscule quelqu'un, je dis « Pardon ».

If I bump into someone, I say “Sorry.”

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