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How to Say ‘Excuse me’ in Traditional Chinese

不好意思

bù hǎo yì sī

[boo how ee suh]

🇹🇼 In Taiwan: [不好意思] is extremely common in Taiwan for getting someone's attention, softening a complaint, or apologizing lightly. In a taxi dispute, it sounds much less confrontational than jumping straight into a complaint.

Phrase Breakdown

不好意思

bù hǎo yì sī

[boo how ee suh]

excuse me; sorry

A polite phrase used to get attention, apologize lightly, or show embarrassment in everyday Taiwan Mandarin.

Example

不好意思,司機先生,我想問一下可以刷卡嗎?

Excuse me, sir driver, may I ask if I can pay by card?

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