How to Say ‘Sorry to keep you waiting.’ in Simplified Chinese
不好意思久等了。
bù hǎo yì sī jiǔ děng le
[bù hǎoyìsi jyoh dung luh]
Phrase Breakdown
不好意思
bù hǎo yì sī
[bù hǎoyìsi]
sorry; excuse me
Polite expression of mild apology or embarrassment.
不好意思，我来晚了。
Sorry, I'm late.
久等了。
jiǔ děng le
for the long wait
久等了 means '(you've) waited a long time'.
大家久等了。
Sorry for keeping everyone waiting.
Words in this phrase
久
jiǔ
[jyoh]
long (time)
久 refers to a long duration of time.
你看我这么久，总得给我个理由吧。
You’ve been looking at me for so long—you should at least give me a reason.
等
děng
[dung]
to wait
Describes the act of staying prepared or in expectation for something to happen.
我在等班车。
I am waiting for the bus.
了
le
[luh]
completed action marker
Shows that an action has happened or a new situation has occurred.
我想了很久，还是决定联系你。
I thought about it for a long time and still decided to contact you.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered feedback on what you say out loud
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Lessons for Your Situation
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Shanghai business dinners require real Mandarin skills. This app’s situation-based approach meant I could keep up with clients after just a month of practice.”
Ryan M., 36, Consultant
“Learning a language has never been as immediately impactful. Now I can charm the locals and navigate the food scene like a boss.”
Alex M., 42, Software Engineer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager