Es tut mir leid

I'm sorry (expressing genuine regret)

Beginner Phrase

🔊

Pronunciation

/ɛs tuːt miːɐ̯ laɪ̯t/

💡

Cultural Note

Unlike 'Entschuldigung,' which can be casual, 'Es tut mir leid' expresses deeper, genuine regret or sympathy. It literally means 'it does sorrow to me.' Use it for sincere apologies, expressing condolences, or when you feel truly bad about something.

📝 Example Sentences

Es tut mir leid, dass ich zu spät komme.

I'm sorry that I'm arriving late.

Es tut mir wirklich leid, das zu hören.

I'm really sorry to hear that.

Es tut mir so leid, das wollte ich nicht.

I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to do that.

#polite #essential #emotions #communication

Related Words

Entschuldigung

Excuse me / Sorry / Apology

verzeihen

to forgive, to pardon

Verzeihung

Pardon / Forgive me (formal apology)

Related Articles

How to Apologize in German: Essential Phrases for Couples

Learn to say sorry in German with heartfelt apology phrases. Master German expressions for forgiveness and making amends with your partner.

German Small Talk: Conversation Starters for Every Situation

Master German small talk with essential conversation starters. Perfect for meeting your partner's friends and family naturally.

German Romantic Phrases for Every Occasion

Discover beautiful German romantic phrases for every occasion! From first dates to anniversaries, express your love in German with the perfect words.

Back to Dictionary