In German
Es tut mir leid
Meaning: sorry (an apology)
Formal or informal? “Es tut mir leid” is the standard apology. The short “Tut mir leid” is common in speech. For getting someone's attention, use “Entschuldigung” instead (see “excuse me”).
Example sentences
Estutmirleid,ichhabeesvergessen.
Sorry, I forgot it.
Estutmirsehrleid!
I'm really sorry!
Tutmirleid,ichverstehenicht.
Sorry, I don't understand.
Grammar note
“Es tut mir leid” literally means “it does me sorrow”, with “mir” (to me) in the dative. The verb “leidtun” is separable.
Common mistake
Don't use “Es tut mir leid” to catch someone's attention in a shop. Use “Entschuldigung”.
Quick check
Which phrase is the standard way to say “I'm sorry”?
More words on this topic
Keep learning German
Practise it in a lesson →Frequently asked questions
How do I apologise more strongly?
“Es tut mir sehr leid” (I'm very sorry), or “Ich entschuldige mich”.
What's the difference from Entschuldigung?
“Es tut mir leid” is an apology with feeling. “Entschuldigung” can be an apology or a way to get attention.