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How to Say ‘Oh, this is so embarrassing.’ in Simplified Chinese

哎呀,这多不好意思。

āi yā zhè duō bù hǎo yì sī

[āiyā juh duō bù hǎoyìsi]

🇨🇳 In China: A show of modest reluctance is the expected first response to a treat in China. It doesn't mean no, and the person offering is expected to insist gently.

Phrase Breakdown

哎呀,

āi yā

oh my

This interjection shows surprise or politeness. Say it 'āiyā' with a lively, drawn-out tone.

Example

哎呀,下雨了!

Oh no, it's raining!

Words in this phrase

哎呀

āi yā

[āiyā]

oh my; oh dear

Interjection expressing surprise or mild embarrassment.

Example

哎呀,我忘了带钱包!

Oh no, I forgot my wallet!

这多不好意思。

zhè duō bù hǎo yì sī

that's so kind of you (I feel bad)

This is a polite modest reply to an offer. 思 in 意思 is light: 'yìsi'.

Example

让你等这么久,这多不好意思。

Making you wait so long, I feel so bad.

Words in this phrase

这

zhè

[juh]

this

A demonstrative meaning “this,” used to point to something near the speaker.

Example

这个活动来了很多公司代表。

Many company representatives came to this event.

多

duō

[duō]

how (to what extent)

Before an adjective in questions, asks about degree or amount.

Example

这条河多宽?

How wide is this river?

不好意思

bù hǎo yì sī

[bù hǎoyìsi]

embarrassing; too kind

Expresses feeling awkward or embarrassed, e.g. when receiving a favor.

Example

让你等这么久,真不好意思。

Sorry to make you wait so long.

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