Thanking & Apologizing
Use these phrases to navigate everyday social situations gracefully, from showing gratitude to handling small accidents.
Key Phrases
Thanks a lot!
casualA very common and friendly way to say thank you.
Thank you so much.
neutralThe standard phrase for showing gratitude in most daily situations.
I really appreciate your help.
politeUse this when someone has spent time doing you a big favor.
No worries!
casualVery popular in spoken English to show it wasn't a problem.
You're welcome.
neutralThe standard and safe response in almost any situation.
Oh, sorry about that!
casualUse for tiny accidents, like bumping into someone slightly.
I'm sorry, my mistake.
neutralGood for admitting a small error at work or in daily life.
I'm really sorry about the mistake.
neutralI apologize for the delay.
politeFormal language, often used in business or customer service.
No problem at all.
casualThat's alright, don't worry about it.
neutralA polite way to make the other person feel better after a mistake.
Excuse me, can I just get by?
neutralUS - Use when you need to walk past someone in a tight space.
Excuse me, can I just get past?
neutralUK - Use when you need to walk past someone in a tight space.
Sorry to interrupt, but I have a question.
neutralExcuse me, could I just say something?
politeA very polite way to enter a discussion, like in a meeting.
Excuse me, do you have a minute?
neutralA polite way to stop a colleague to ask for help.