🙏✋⏱️

How to Say ‘Sorry to interrupt for a moment.’ in Simplified Chinese

不好意思，打扰一下。

bù hǎo yì sī dǎ rǎo yī xià

[bù hǎoyìsi dǎrǎo ee-shyah]

💬 Usage Tip: 一下 (yí xià) after a verb softens it to "just for a moment". Also 看一下 "take a quick look".

Phrase Breakdown

不好意思，

bù hǎo yì sī

sorry,

不好意思 (bù hǎoyìsi) is a polite 'excuse me' or 'sorry'. 思 is light.

Example

不好意思，我来晚了。

Sorry, I'm late.

Words in this phrase

不好意思

bù hǎo yì sī

[bù hǎoyìsi]

sorry; excuse me

Polite expression of mild apology or embarrassment.

Example

不好意思，我来晚了。

Sorry, I'm late.

打扰一下。

dǎ rǎo yī xià

to interrupt for a moment.

打扰 (dǎrǎo) means 'disturb'. 一下 (yíxià) makes it 'just briefly'.

Example

打扰一下，请问洗手间在哪儿？

Excuse me, where is the restroom?

Words in this phrase

打扰

dǎ rǎo

[dǎrǎo]

to disturb; to bother

Verb meaning to interrupt or take up someone's time.

Example

他在工作，别打扰他。

He's working, don't bother him.

一下

yī xià

[ee-shyah]

a little; briefly

Softens the tone, making a request sound lighter and more polite.

Example

方便让我了解一下贵公司的文化吗？

Would it be convenient to let me learn a little about your company culture?

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 Lesson

What 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