Dear MEL Topic Readers,
What British people really mean when they say 'sorry'
When you interrupt someone speaking or remind someone of something,
which word do you usually use, “Excuse me” or “Sorry”? Americans tend to use “Excuse
me” to ask for permission preemptively, and say “Sorry” to ask for forgiveness
or express compassion. On the other side of the pond, people in Britain use “Sorry”
more often in various ways, sometimes proactively or non-apologetically, to
avoid confrontations. These are some social situations where Brits use “Sorry”.
“Sorry” on the street is often used as an apology, like “Excuse me”.
“Sorry?” after hearing what someone said often means “Pardon?” or “Please
say that again.”
“Sorry, can/may I …?” is used to soften a request, like asking if a
seat is taken.
“Oh, sorry …” could mean
objection in a less confrontational manner.
“Sorry, but …” is said before objecting, denying, or rejecting
something being said.
“Sorry …” in a queue is to remind someone of etiquette to be respected.
How versatile the British “sorry” is!
Read the article and learn how “sorry” is used by British people.
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