You say this before asking something personal. It means "Excuse me, but..." or "This might be rude, but..." It makes your question sound softer.
失礼ですが、 + SentencePrimary
You say this before asking something personal. It means "Excuse me, but..." or "This might be rude, but..." It makes your question sound softer.
失礼ですが、お名前を伺ってもよろしいでしょうか。
Excuse me, but may I ask for your name?
失礼ですが、そちらは私の席ではないでしょうか。
Excuse me, but isn't that my seat?
「失礼ですが、どちら様ですか」と受付で聞かれました。
I was asked at the reception desk, 'Excuse me, but who might you be?'
失礼ですが、この辺りに郵便局はありませんか。
Excuse me, but is there a post office around here?
大変失礼ですが、先ほどのお話、少し誤解があるかと存じます。
I know this is very rude, but I believe there may be a slight misunderstanding regarding what was just said.
You can use this phrase to politely break into a conversation. Or you can use it to gently point out a mistake. It makes these actions feel less harsh.
This phrase is for small interruptions. If your request will cause trouble, use "お手数ですが". If you speak to a boss or client, use "恐れ入りますが". It shows more respect.
Don't use this when you need to be very polite. For example, don't use it with a very important customer.
Use this when you want to ask a personal question. Or when you ask a stranger for something. It shows you know you might be bothering them.
Less formal alternatives(2)
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