Saying "sorry" when someone bumps into YOU
SO-ree /ˈsɒri/
Neutral Polite
What it really means
A famous British habit: if someone bumps into you, you'll often both say "sorry". Here "sorry" isn't an admission of fault — it's a quick social signal meaning "no hard feelings, all fine". Joining in costs nothing and smooths the moment; staying silent can feel slightly cold.
Chinese explanation
英国著名的习惯：别人撞到你，双方往往都会说"sorry"。这里的"sorry"不是承认错误，而是一种快速的社交信号，意思是"没事，别介意"。跟着说一句毫无成本还能化解尴尬；一声不吭反而显得有点冷淡。
Example conversation
A: Sorry!
B: Sorry! My fault entirely.
A: No no, mine. Sorry.
A：抱歉！
B：抱歉！完全是我的错。
A：不不，是我的错。抱歉。
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· Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake