ขอโทษ — meaning in English: excuse me

kho thot · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for excuse me

ขอโทษ

kho thot

อะไร

arai

ขาย

khai

ส้ม

som

ทางเลือก

thangleuk

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers often use 'ขอโทษ' (kho thot) when trying to get someone's attention in a crowded market or when they accidentally bump into someone. It's also common in conversations to politely interrupt someone or when asking for help in public spaces like restaurants or shops.

Synonyms & nuances

'ขอโทษ' is often compared to 'เสียใจ' (sia jai), which means 'sorry' but is used in more serious contexts. You would use 'ขอโทษ' when making a minor mistake or needing to interrupt, while 'เสียใจ' conveys deeper regret.

Culture

'ขอโทษ' has roots in the polite and respectful nature of Thai culture, where maintaining harmony is essential. The word reflects the Thai emphasis on humility and face-saving, making it not just a phrase for apologies but also a way to show respect in daily interactions.

FAQ

Q.How do you say 'excuse me' in Thai?

'Excuse me' in Thai is 'ขอโทษ' (kho thot), and it's used to politely get someone's attention or to apologize for a minor mistake.

Q.When should I use 'ขอโทษ' instead of other words?

'ขอโทษ' is appropriate in everyday situations, especially for light interruptions or minor offenses. For more serious apologies, consider using 'เสียใจ' to express deeper regret.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with using 'ขอโทษ'?

A common mistake is using 'ขอโทษ' in highly formal situations where a more respectful phrase might be expected. In very formal settings, you might need to use additional polite expressions.

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Thai Vocabulary