A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Sorry to bother you" in French
Politely interrupt someone or ask for a small favor without causing inconvenience.
Pardon de vous déranger.
par-DOHN duh vooz day-ron-ZHAYneutral
French TTS · 0:01
Use this when you need to get someone's attention, like asking a stranger for directions or if you need to pass someone in a crowded space. It's also good for asking a shopkeeper a quick question.
Alternatives
- Excusez-moi.More general, for getting attention or a slight apology.
- Désolé(e) de vous déranger.Slightly more apologetic, emphasizing your regret.
Ways to get it wrong
Pronouncing 'déranger' like 'de-range-er'
The 'g' in French is soft, like the 'zh' in 'measure', not a hard 'g'.
Forgetting the 'de'
You need 'de' to connect 'Pardon' with the action of bothering someone.
A small cultural note
While 'Pardon de vous déranger' is perfectly polite, some might find it a touch formal. A simple 'Excusez-moi' is often sufficient in very brief encounters.
The same phrase in other languages
Frequently asked
When do I use 'Pardon de vous déranger' vs 'Excusez-moi'?
'Excusez-moi' is more versatile for getting attention or a minor apology. Use 'Pardon de vous déranger' when you are specifically interrupting someone's activity or task.
Is 'Pardon de vous déranger' too formal for a shop?
It's generally fine and shows good manners. A quick 'Excusez-moi' is also common and acceptable in shops.
How do I say 'sorry to bother you' to a friend?
With a friend, you'd likely switch to 'tu' and say 'Pardon de te déranger' or even more casually, 'Désolé de te déranger'.
