ursäkta

Ursäkta is a Swedish verb used to excuse or apologize, and it also functions as a polite interjection to get someone’s attention. The word is common in everyday speech and in written Swedish, and it covers both apologizing for a minor fault and offering a courteous preface to a remark or request.

As an interjection, Ursäkta can stand alone as a quick way to attract attention or to precede a question, much like “excuse me” in English. It is also used with a following clause to introduce an apology or explanation, for example: “Ursäkta att jag stör, men kan du hjälpa mig?” In more formal or careful speech, speakers may say “Ursäkta mig” or place the phrase before a longer sentence, e.g., “Ursäkta, jag undrar vad klockan är.” The imperative form is frequently used in direct conversations, customer service, and signage.

Ursäkta is considered neutral to polite in tone, suitable for informal conversations and many professional contexts. For stronger or more explicit apologies, speakers often use a fuller phrase such as “jag ber om ursäkt.” Conversely, in casual speech many people opt for “förlåt” as a lighter alternative. The expression also appears in public announcements and notices to request attention or to acknowledge an interruption, for example in transportation hubs or retail environments.