Saying Sorry and Accepting Apologies in Chinese: An HSK Study Guide

When preparing for the HSK exam, learning how to say sorry and accept apologies in Chinese is essential. These expressions not only enhance your vocabulary but also improve your understanding of Chinese culture and etiquette. In this guide, we will cover key phrases and grammar points related to apologies.

Key Vocabulary for Apologies

Here are some important words and phrases you need to know:

1. 对不起 (duìbuqǐ) - I'm sorry
2. 抱歉 (bàoqiàn) - Sorry, Apologize
3. 请原谅 (qǐng yuánliàng) - Please forgive me
4. 没关系 (méi guānxi) - It’s okay, No problem
5. 没事 (méi shì) - It's nothing

Usage in Sentences

• 对不起，我迟到了。
  Duìbuqǐ, wǒ chídào le.
  (I'm sorry, I'm late.)

• 抱歉，我不小心打破了你的杯子。
  Bàoqiàn, wǒ bù xiǎoxīn dǎpò le nǐ de bēizi.
  (Sorry, I accidentally broke your cup.)

• 请原谅，我不是故意的。
  Qǐng yuánliàng, wǒ bù shì gùyì de.
  (Please forgive me, I didn't mean it.)

• 没关系，下次注意就好。
  Méi guānxi, xiàcì zhùyì jiù hǎo.
  (It’s okay, just be careful next time.)

• 没事，我能理解。
  Méi shì, wǒ néng lǐjiě.
  (It's nothing, I can understand.)

Grammar Points

Using 对不起 (duìbuqǐ)

• Subject + 对不起 + Object
  This structure is used to directly apologize to someone.

  Example: 我对不起你。 (Wǒ duìbuqǐ nǐ.) - I am sorry to you.

Using 抱歉 (bàoqiàn)

• 抱歉 + Sentence
  This phrase can be used to start a sentence to express regret.

  Example: 抱歉，我今天不能来了。 (Bàoqiàn, wǒ jīntiān bù néng lái le.) - Sorry, I can’t come today.

Using 没关系 (méi guānxi)

• 没关系 + Sentence
  This structure is often used to reassure someone that everything is fine.

  Example: 没关系，你不需要担心。 (Méi guānxi, nǐ bù xūyào dānxīn.) - It’s okay, you don’t need to worry.

Expressing Forgiveness

When someone apologizes to you, there are several ways to express that you accept their apology:

• 没事 (méi shì)
  A common and casual way to say “it’s nothing.”

• 没关系 (méi guānxi)
  Used to reassure the person that their mistake is not a big deal.

Practice Exercises

To master these expressions, practice the following exercises:

1. Write five sentences using 对不起 to apologize for different situations.
2. Create three dialogues where you accept apologies using 没关系 and 没事.
3. Translate the following sentences into Chinese:
   • "I’m sorry for breaking your phone."
   • "It’s okay, I understand."
   • "Please forgive me, I was late."

By incorporating these vocabulary words and grammar structures into your HSK study routine, you’ll be well-prepared to handle situations involving apologies in Chinese. Mastering these expressions is not only essential for the HSK exam but also for real-life interactions in Chinese-speaking environments.