Entschuldigung
Wordform Details
Translation: excuse mesorryapologypardon
Part of Speech: noun
Inflection Type:
femininesingularnominativeIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: Entschuldigung
Translation: excuse; apology; pardon; sorry (noun)
Etymology: From Middle High German 'entschuldigen' meaning 'to free from guilt or debt'. The word breaks down into 'ent-' (prefix meaning 'away from' or 'un-') + 'Schuld' (guilt, debt) + '-ung' (noun-forming suffix). The root 'Schuld' is cognate with English 'should' and relates to obligation or debt. This connection helps explain why German uses the same word for both asking forgiveness and requesting permission to leave - both involve being released from an obligation.
Example Usage
Entschuldigung, wo ist der Bahnhof?
Excuse me, where is the train station?
Ich möchte mich entschuldigen.
I would like to apologize.
Entschuldigung für die Verspätung.
Sorry for the delay.
Ich möchte mich für mein Verhalten entschuldigen.
I would like to apologize for my behavior.
Entschuldigung, ich bin zu spät.
Sorry, I'm late.
Mnemonics
- Think 'un-should-ing' - removing the obligation or guilt you 'should' feel
- ENT-schuld-igung: ENTer without guilt after saying this
Synonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Germans tend to use 'Entschuldigung' more frequently than English speakers use 'excuse me' or 'sorry'. It's considered polite to say when passing someone, getting attention, or for minor inconveniences. The formal 'Entschuldigen Sie' is used with strangers or in professional settings.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: Verzeihung is more formal and implies asking for forgiveness for a more serious offense, while Entschuldigung is used for minor inconveniences and getting attention
Notes: Entschuldigung is more versatile and commonly used in daily interactions
Mnemonic: Verzeihung sounds more serious - use it for serious situations requiring forgiveness