How do Russians say ""sorry""?

How Russians Say “Sorry” (And When They Really Mean It)

Ask any beginner in Russian, and they’ll tell you: извини (informal) or извините (formal) are the go-to words for “sorry.” You’ll hear them on crowded metro trains, in shops, or when someone brushes past you. But here’s the thing—these phrases are often more practical than heartfelt. They’re polite, yes, but sometimes used like verbal reflexes—like saying “excuse me” without a second thought.

If you want to dig deeper, try прости or простите. These come from the verb “to forgive,” and pack a real emotional punch. You’d use them not for bumping into someone, but for breaking a promise, hurting a friend, or missing an important event. It’s the kind of “sorry” that asks for genuine forgiveness, not just clearance to pass by.

Then there’s the more formal прошу прощения—“I ask for your pardon.” It’s common in public settings or when you’ve made a noticeable mistake. Closely related is виноват (for men) or виновата (for women), literally meaning “guilty.” You might hear this in customer service when an employee admits fault—short, humble, and direct.

And for something heavier, heavier still: мне жаль. It translates to “I’m sorry” but carries the weight of regret. You’d say it not for stepping on someone’s foot, but for hearing about a loss, a failure, or a sad event. It’s empathy, not etiquette.

So yes, Russians have many ways to say “sorry”—but the choice says a lot about the moment, the relationship, and how truly sorry they mean to be.