Sometimes it can be difficult to apologize and say “I’m sorry” in a foreign language. This is especially true when visiting Croatia, as the Croatian language has different words for expressing apology depending on the situation. Here are some of the most common ways to say “I’m sorry” in Croatian:
How to Say I’m Sorry in Croatian
1) Žao mi je (žah-oh mee yay): This phrase translates literally as “it is sad for me,” but is used to express regret or remorse. It can be used in formal and informal situations alike.
2) Ispričavam se (eesh-pree-chahvahm seh): Another way of saying you are sorry that could be translated into English as “I apologize.” It is slightly more formal than Žao mi je, so it may be better suited for certain contexts like apologizing at work or to someone older than you.
3) Oprostite (ohpros-tee-tay): A polite way of saying “Excuse me,” this phrase implies that you have made an error or mistake and would like forgiveness from the person you are addressing. You might use it if you accidentally bump into someone on the street or make a comment that offends them unintentionally.
4) Izvinite (eezveeneeyeh): This expression also implies asking for forgiveness and conveys politeness towards another person – likely one who holds higher social status than yourself such as an elder family member or teacher.
5) Molim oprost(moleem oh prosst): The most formal version of all these phrases – meaning “Please forgive me” – should only really be used when making a sincere apology after doing something majorly wrong.
In general, Croatians tend not to take offense easily so there isn’t usually too much pressure when apologizing. However, knowing how to properly express regret will show respect towards local customs while helping ensure smoother interactions with others during your stay in Croatia!
Example Sentences using I’m Sorry in Croatian
1. I’m sorry for not being able to attend your party. – Žao mi je što nisam mogla prisustvovati tvojoj zabavi
2. I’m sorry that I forgot to call you back yesterday. – Žao mi je što sam zaboravila javiti ti se jučer
3. I’m sorry if my words hurt you in any way. – Žao mi je ako su moje riječi te u bilo kojem načinu povrijedile
4. I’m sorry, can you please repeat what you said? – Žao mi je, možeš li molim te ponoviti ono što si rekao?
5.I’m sorry, it was a mistake on my part and won’t happen again. – Žao mi je, bila je to greška s moje strane i više se neće dogoditi
You’re Welcome in Croatian