A2Italian

Thanking & Apologizing

Essential phrases for expressing gratitude, apologizing for small mistakes, and politely navigating around others.

Key Phrases

Voice
Expressing thanks · 2 ways to say it

Grazie mille per l'aiuto.

neutral

Thanks a lot for the help.

A standard, everyday way to thank someone for specific assistance.

Ti ringrazio tanto.

casual

Thank you so much.

Use this with friends, family, or peers you address with 'tu'.

Responding to thanks · 3 ways to say it

Di niente.

neutral

It's nothing.

The most common and versatile way to say 'you're welcome'.

Figurati!

casual

Don't mention it!

Very common informal response; literally 'figure it yourself' or 'imagine that'.

Si figuri.

polite

Don't mention it.

The formal version of 'figurati', used with strangers or service staff.

Apologizing · 3 ways to say it

Scusa, è colpa mia.

casual

Sorry, it's my fault.

For small mistakes with friends or people you know well.

Mi dispiace per il ritardo.

neutral

I'm sorry for the delay.

Works perfectly at work or in general everyday situations.

Mi scusi per l'errore.

polite

Excuse me for the mistake.

A formal apology, useful in customer service or official contexts.

Responding to an apology

Non fa niente.

neutral

That's okay.

Literally 'it does nothing'—the easiest way to accept a minor apology.

Passing through

Permesso?

neutral

Excuse me?

Say this to ask someone to move so you can pass through a crowd, aisle, or door.

Interrupting · 2 ways to say it

Scusa, hai un minuto?

casual

Excuse me, do you have a minute?

To gently interrupt a friend or coworker.

Mi scusi, posso fare una domanda?

polite

Excuse me, can I ask a question?

Use this to get the attention of a stranger or a shop assistant.

Practice Dialogue

Commuter
Permesso? Devo passare.
Tourist
Oh, mi dispiace. Faccio spazio.
Commuter
Grazie mille.
Tourist
Si figuri.
Commuter
Mi scusi, ha perso questi occhiali?
Tourist
I miei occhiali! Grazie per l'aiuto.
Commuter
Di niente. Buona giornata!

More Greetings & Socializing (A2)

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