How to apologize in Persian

One Persian word covers excuse me, pardon, and a light sorry, and a few others handle a real apology.

Bebakhshid ببخشید is the everyday workhorse. It means excuse me, pardon, and sorry, and you can use it to get attention, pass by someone, or apologise lightly.

A genuine apology

For something more serious, say ozr mikham عذر می‌خوام or mazerat mikham معذرت می‌خوام, both meaning "I apologize."

The embarrassed sorry

Sharmandeam شرمنده‌ام means "I'm ashamed" and is used as a heartfelt, slightly humble sorry, often when you have inconvenienced someone.

Getting attention politely

To stop someone or ask a question, bebakhshid on its own is perfect, much like "excuse me" in English. Add the request right after it.

Use bebakhshid for everyday moments, ozr mikham or mazerat mikham for a real apology, and sharmandeam when you want to sound genuinely humble.