Apologizing or expressing regret is a crucial part of any language and culture. In Portuguese, there are various expressions you can use to convey your apologies or regrets in different situations. Here’s a guide to some of the most commonly used expressions, which will help you communicate more effectively in Portuguese-speaking environments.
Desculpa – This is a casual way to say “sorry.” It can be used among friends or in less formal situations.
Desculpa, eu não vi o seu recado.
Desculpe – This is a slightly more formal version of “desculpa,” and it’s often used in similar contexts, but with people you don’t know as well or in slightly more formal settings.
Desculpe, você poderia repetir o que disse?
Sinto muito – This translates to “I’m very sorry” and is used in more serious situations or when the apology needs to carry more weight.
Sinto muito pela sua perda.
Peço desculpas – This phrase means “I apologize.” It’s formal and emphasizes the speaker’s responsibility in the apology.
Peço desculpas pelo atraso na entrega do projeto.
Me perdoe – Meaning “forgive me,” this is a personal plea and is usually reserved for situations where you are seeking forgiveness from someone close to you or in more intimate settings.
Me perdoe por esquecer do nosso aniversário de casamento.
Errei – Simply put, this means “I was wrong.” This can be used when admitting a mistake in judgment or action.
Errei ao não te consultar antes de tomar essa decisão.
Lamento – This translates to “I regret.” It’s used to express regret over a situation without necessarily taking personal blame.
Lamento que as coisas tenham chegado a esse ponto.
Infelizmente – Meaning “unfortunately,” this word is used to preface a regretful announcement or situation, often beyond the speaker’s control.
Infelizmente, não poderemos atender ao seu pedido.
Que pena – This phrase translates to “what a pity” or “that’s too bad.” It’s often used in response to unfortunate news or events.
Que pena que você não pode vir à festa.
Não foi minha intenção – This means “It was not my intention.” It’s useful when you need to clarify that any harm caused was unintentional.
Não foi minha intenção te ofender com meus comentários.
Eu deveria ter pensado melhor – This translates to “I should have thought better.” It indicates a realization of mistake and reflection on one’s actions.
Eu deveria ter pensado melhor antes de agir dessa maneira.
Não vai acontecer novamente – Meaning “It won’t happen again,” this phrase is used to reassure someone that the mistake or action will not be repeated.
Não vai acontecer novamente, eu prometo.
Understanding these expressions and when to use them can greatly enhance your ability to communicate effectively in Portuguese. Apologies are a sensitive part of interaction, and using the appropriate phrase can make a significant difference in how your message is received. Whether it’s a minor mistake or a significant error, being able to express yourself clearly and appropriately is key to maintaining good relationships and conducting oneself professionally in a Portuguese-speaking environment.
