Thank You & Sorry

Politeness goes a long way! Let's learn how to say thank you and sorry in Cantonese.

唔該 is used when someone does something for you (holds the door, brings food). 多謝 is used when you receive a gift or favor.

• m4 goi1唔該thank you (for service)
• do1 ze6多謝thank you (for gift)

對唔住 is a direct apology (“I'm sorry”). 唔好意思 is lighter, like “excuse me” or “my bad”, used for minor inconveniences.

• deoi3 m4 zyu6對唔住sorry
• m4 hou2 ji3 si3唔好意思excuse me

Cultural tip: Hong Kong people use 唔該 constantly. It's the go-to word for getting a waiter's attention, thanking someone who holds the door, or saying “please” before a request.

• m4 goi1唔該thank you / please / excuse me