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Learn the meaning and usage of the collocation sorry to bother you, which is used to show politeness when asking or interrupting someone. See examples, synonyms and related words.
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What are alternatives to sorry to Bother You?
What does'sorry for bothering you' mean?
How do you say sorry for bothering you in a sentence?
What is the difference between'sorry to Bother You' & 'Sorry to Bother You'?
- Apologies for the interruption. This alternative is softer and more formal than the original phrase. It acknowledges the recipient’s time and workspace, making it suitable for professional settings where you need to interrupt someone’s workflow.
- Excuse the intrusion. This phrase is a polite way of acknowledging that you are entering someone’s space or conversation uninvited. It is especially useful in situations where the communication might not be expected but is necessary.
- Pardon the disruption. “Pardon the disruption” is an elegant way to begin an email, especially when you are about to introduce a topic that may divert the recipient from their current tasks.
- Forgive the disturbance. This expression is similar to “sorry to bother you” but carries a more formal tone. It’s suitable when you are seeking understanding or patience from the recipient.
Mar 28, 2024 · Learn the difference between "sorry for bothering you" and "sorry to bother you" in polite apologies. Find out when and how to use them in professional and personal contexts, and discover alternative expressions to avoid over-apologizing.
- Usage Notes
- Examples of Use
- Sorry For Bothering You
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Sorry to bother you or I’m sorry to bother you are both acceptable. Most native speakers of English leave out the I’m.
“Sorry to bother you, but can you tell me where the restrooms are?” “Sarah, sorry to bother you, but Ms. Collins is here to see you.” “Sorry to bother you but could you please give me a moment of your time?” “Thanks, sorry to bother you.”
Sorry for bothering you is a variation that can be used the same way as ‘sorry to bother you.’ It can also serve as an informal way to apologize for ‘bothering someone in the past. “Sorry for bothering you yesterday.” You can also say ‘sorry to have bothered you yesterday.’ When repeatedly interrupting someone or asking them questions, etc. ‘sorry ...
Learn the definition and usage of the idiom 'sorry to bother you', which is a polite way to apologize for interrupting or asking someone. See examples, variations and related expressions.
- Thank you. Rather than opening an email with an apology, you can thank the recipient(s) for their help and time. This way, you won’t inadvertently admit fault or guilt, but instead, show your appreciation.
- I apologize for reaching out again. There are times when you may find yourself emailing someone a lot: whether it be for help, clarification, or any other reason.
- I hope I’m not interrupting at an inconvenient time. This phrase is as close as a direct synonym to sorry to bother you as you can get. Sorry to bother you, but I would like to know the status of the report.
- Let me know when is a good time to… Often, people use the phrase sorry to bother you because it precedes a tedious and burdensome task or request. If you find yourself in this situation, you can instead ask the recipient(s) when is a good time to thoroughly discuss the task or request.
What Is The Difference Between “Sorry For Bothering You” And “Sorry To Bother You”? “Sorry for bothering you” should be used at the end of a conversation. “Sorry to bother you” should be used at the beginning of a conversation.
Mar 28, 2024 · Learn when to use "Sorry to Bother You" and "Sorry for Bothering You" in different situations. See examples, nuances and tips for polite communication in American English.
