When travelling in the Middle East, you may find yourself in a situation where you need to say “Excuse me” in Arabic. Knowing how to do so can help when needing to ask for direction, where you are, or just to ask a local a question.
How to Say Excuse Me In Arabic
The most common way to say “excuse me” in Arabic is “Afwan” (أفوان). This expression can be used when asking someone to move out of your way or if you are trying to get someone’s attention politely. It is also used as an apology for minor mistakes or offenses such as bumping into someone accidentally.
If you are addressing an elder person or a superior, you should use “Asif” (عسيف) instead which means “I beg your pardon”.
If you wish to apologize for something more serious than just saying sorry would not suffice. Try “Aasef” (فِآس) which translates roughly as “I am deeply sorry”.
Remember that Arabs prefer direct communication rather than beating around the bush so avoid being too indirect when making requests or offering apologies.
Example Sentences using Excuse Me In Arabic
1. Excuse me, can you tell me the time? – معذرة ، هل يمكنك إخباري بالوقت؟ – maedhiratan , hal yumkinuk ‘iikhbari bialwaqti?
2. Excuse me, do you mind if I sit here? – معذرة ، هل تمانع إذا جلست هنا؟ – maedhiratan , hal tumanie ‘iidha jalast huna?
3. Excuse me for interrupting, but could I get your attention please? – اعذرني على المقاطعة ، لكن هل يمكنني لفت انتباهك من فضلك؟ – aiedhirni ealaa almuqataeat , lakin hal yumkinuni laft antibahik min fadlika?
4. Excuse me, where is the nearest supermarket? – معذرة ، أين أقرب سوبر ماركت؟ – maedhiratan , ‘ayn ‘aqrab subar markit?
5. Excuse me sir, can I ask you a question? – معذرة سيدي ، هل يمكنني أن أسألك سؤالاً؟ – maedhiratan sayidi , hal yumkinuni ‘an ‘as’alak swalaan?
6. Excuse me waiter/waitress, could we have another menu please? – معذرة النادل / النادلة هل يمكننا الحصول على قائمة أخرى من فضلك؟ – maedhirat alnaadil / alnaadilat hal yumkinuna alhusul ealaa qayimat ‘ukhraa min fadliki?
7. Excuse Me Miss, Could You Please Repeat That? – عفوا يا آنسة ، هل يمكنك تكرار ذلك من فضلك؟ – eafwan ya ansatan , hal yumkinuk takrar dhalik min fadlika?
Thank You in Arabic