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How to Say ‘Sorry / excuse me’ in Traditional Chinese

不好意思

bù hǎo yì sī

[boo how ee suh]

🇹🇼 In Taiwan: [不好意思] is the go-to softener in Taiwan for getting someone's attention or raising a concern politely. In a taxi dispute, starting with it helps you sound calm rather than confrontational.

Phrase Breakdown

不好意思

bù hǎo yì sī

[boo how ee suh]

excuse me; sorry

A polite phrase used to get someone's attention, apologize lightly, or soften what you are about to say.

Example

不好意思,我想先確認一下路線。

Excuse me, I’d like to confirm the route first.

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