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- Topic: Swedish >
- "Ja, ursäkta!"
44 Comments
145
I did not think any nation could be sorrier than the English. I regularly hear people apologising when someone bumps into them, rather than the other way around. Still, I suppose it's better if two people, both bumper and bumped, apologise, rather than resort to fists.
145
To my UK English ears I'm sorry is an apology for something I have done. Does it also mean Excuse me, can I get past?
Usually, although context may dictate preference. For instance, you wouldn't use ursäkta for a heartfelt apology when you're truly sorry for screwing something up, while it's probably a lot more common as a quick "oh, sorry" when bumping into someone. Honestly, the only way to learn these situations is probably trial & error. At least everyone will understand either way.