Meaning
This versatile phrase literally means 'not good meaning/feelings' and expresses embarrassment, apology, or polite hesitation. It's softer and more casual than 对不起 (duì bu qǐ) and often used when you feel awkward about something minor or need to politely get someone's attention.
Usage
Native speakers use 不好意思 for minor apologies (bumping into someone, asking a favor), expressing embarrassment, or softening requests. It's extremely common in daily conversation and considered more polite and less heavy than formal apologies. Often repeated as 不好意思不好意思 when feeling particularly awkward.
Examples
- 01不好意思，请问洗手间在哪里？, ?Excuse me, where is the restroom?
- 02我迟到了，真不好意思。, .I'm late, I'm really sorry.
Characters
Common collocations
- 真不好意思really sorry/embarrassed
- 有点不好意思a bit embarrassed
- 不好意思打扰sorry to bother (you)
Origin
The phrase combines 不好 (not good) with 意思 (meaning/intention), creating the sense of 'improper intentions' or 'feelings of impropriety,' which evolved to express embarrassment and apologetic feelings.