60 Creative Alternatives to “Sorry To Disturb You”

In our daily interactions, especially in professional and personal settings, it’s common to interrupt someone. Whether it’s to ask a question, seek assistance, or share information, these interruptions can sometimes feel awkward.

A common phrase many people use in such situations is “Sorry to disturb you.” While it conveys politeness, there are many alternative phrases that can be equally effective, perhaps even more so. In this article, we will explore 60 creative alternatives to “Sorry to disturb you,” each with its own unique flavor and nuance.

These alternatives not only help you express your intent but also enhance your communication style. By using these phrases, you can convey respect for the other person’s time and attention, fostering a positive atmosphere in your interactions.

Let’s dive into these creative alternatives and understand their nuances, along with examples to illustrate how they can be used in various contexts.

Table of Contents

List of Other Words To Say Instead Of “Sorry To Disturb You”

Here are 60 creative alternatives to “Sorry to disturb you”

Excuse me for interrupting.
Pardon the intrusion.
I hope I’m not bothering you.
I apologize for the interruption.
May I have a moment of your time?
I hope I’m not imposing.
Excuse the disruption.
I hope this isn’t a bad time.
Pardon my interruption.
I hope this isn’t inconvenient.
May I interrupt for a second?
Pardon the disturbance.
I apologize for the disturbance.
I hope this isn’t a nuisance.
May I have a quick word?
Excuse me, could I ask something?
Sorry to bother you, but…
I hope I’m not distracting you.
Excuse the interruption.
May I take a moment of your time?
Sorry for the inconvenience.
Pardon my disruption.
May I have your attention briefly?
Sorry to interrupt, but…
I hope this is a good time.
May I ask you something quickly?
Sorry to intrude, but…
Pardon the break in your work.
May I disturb you for a moment?
Sorry to cut in, but…
I hope I’m not intruding.
May I speak with you briefly?
Sorry to interrupt your day.
Excuse my intrusion.
May I interrupt your thoughts?
Sorry for the distraction.
Pardon the interruption.
May I steal a moment of your time?
Sorry to divert your attention.
Excuse me, do you have a minute?
Pardon the interruption, but…
May I trouble you for a second?
Sorry to bother you for a bit.
I hope I’m not disrupting you.
May I ask for your time briefly?
Excuse the inconvenience.
Pardon my asking, but…
May I take a second of your time?
Sorry to disturb your work.
Excuse me, can I ask something?

1. Excuse me for interrupting.

Using “Excuse me for interrupting” is a straightforward way to acknowledge that you’re aware of the disruption you’re causing. This phrase maintains politeness while also being direct.

For example, if you’re in a meeting and need to ask a question, you might say, “Excuse me for interrupting, but I have a quick question about the project timeline.” This approach shows respect for others’ time while clearly stating your intent.

In everyday conversations, it can be used similarly: “Excuse me for interrupting, I just wanted to add my two cents on that topic.” This phrase conveys a sense of urgency and importance without coming off as rude.

2. Pardon the intrusion.

“Pardon the intrusion” is a slightly formal alternative that communicates respect for the other person’s space or time.

Imagine you are entering someone’s office unannounced; you might say, “Pardon the intrusion, I just wanted to discuss the latest report.” This acknowledges the unexpected nature of your visit while expressing your intention.

It can also be used in more casual settings, like when joining a group conversation: “Pardon the intrusion, but I overheard something that caught my interest.” This phrase can help ease into a conversation gracefully.

3. I hope I’m not bothering you.

This phrase conveys concern for the other person’s feelings while still making your request. It can soften the approach, making it more conversational.

For instance, if you want to ask a colleague for help, you could say, “I hope I’m not bothering you, but could you assist me with this task?” This shows that you respect their time and are aware of your request’s potential impact.

Additionally, it can be a gentle way to enter an ongoing conversation: “I hope I’m not bothering you, but I’d love to hear your thoughts on this.” This maintains a friendly tone.

4. I apologize for the interruption.

Apologizing directly is a classic approach that shows humility. Saying, “I apologize for the interruption” demonstrates that you recognize the disruption.

This could be particularly useful in formal settings, such as meetings: “I apologize for the interruption, but I need clarification on a point.” It indicates that you value the ongoing discussion while still needing to contribute.

In less formal situations, it can also apply: “I apologize for the interruption; I just need to ask something important.” It emphasizes your respect for the other person’s dialogue.

5. May I have a moment of your time?

This phrase is polite and direct, allowing the other person to feel appreciated and valued.

When you need to speak to a colleague, you might say, “May I have a moment of your time to discuss something urgent?” This approach indicates that you respect their schedule.

In social situations, it can also be effective: “May I have a moment of your time to share some exciting news?” It shows that you’re mindful of their current engagement.

6. I hope I’m not imposing.

This alternative emphasizes your consideration for the other person’s circumstances. By saying, “I hope I’m not imposing,” you demonstrate respect for their current situation.

In a workplace scenario, you could use it like this: “I hope I’m not imposing, but could you help me finalize this presentation?” It acknowledges that you are making a request while being courteous.

In social settings, you might say, “I hope I’m not imposing, but would you like to join our discussion?” It invites participation while respecting boundaries.

7. Excuse the disruption.

This phrase is a casual way to acknowledge that you’re interrupting.

For example, during a presentation, you might say, “Excuse the disruption, but I have a point to make.” This maintains a light tone while still indicating that you want to contribute.

You can also use it in more informal conversations: “Excuse the disruption, but I couldn’t help but overhear.” It shows that you respect the flow of conversation but have something valuable to add.

8. I hope this isn’t a bad time.

By using this phrase, you express concern for the other person’s schedule.

Imagine approaching a busy coworker; you might say, “I hope this isn’t a bad time, but I need your input on a project.” This shows that you recognize their current engagement.

In casual conversations, it can be used similarly: “I hope this isn’t a bad time; I just wanted to share some news.” This keeps the tone friendly and considerate.

9. Pardon my interruption.

This phrase is straightforward and respectful, making it clear that you are aware of your timing.

For example, you might say, “Pardon my interruption, but I believe we need to address this issue.” It maintains a professional tone while asserting your need to speak.

In social settings, it can also apply: “Pardon my interruption, but I’d like to share my thoughts on that.” This makes your intent clear without sounding intrusive.

10. I hope this isn’t inconvenient.

This phrase conveys empathy, indicating that you are aware your request may not be ideal for the other person.

When asking for help, you could say, “I hope this isn’t inconvenient, but could you take a look at this report?” This acknowledges that you value their time.

In casual chats, it works well too: “I hope this isn’t inconvenient; I just need to ask you something.” This helps to frame your question positively.

11. May I interrupt for a second?

This phrase is casual and conveys a sense of urgency while still being polite.

For instance, in a group discussion, you might say, “May I interrupt for a second to add my perspective?” This indicates that you value the ongoing conversation while needing to interject.

In a workplace scenario, it can be used like this: “May I interrupt for a second? I think we missed an important detail.” It highlights your input without diminishing others’ contributions.

12. Pardon the disturbance.

This phrase communicates an awareness of the disruption caused by your presence.

Imagine speaking to a team during a meeting: “Pardon the disturbance, but I have something important to share.” This signals that your interruption is for a valid reason.

In less formal situations, it might look like: “Pardon the disturbance; I just wanted to say hello!” This keeps the mood light while acknowledging the interruption.

13. I apologize for the disturbance.

This is a straightforward way to express regret over interrupting someone.

For example, during a conversation, you might say, “I apologize for the disturbance, but I have some urgent news.” It conveys a sense of urgency while still being respectful.

In social settings, it can also be used: “I apologize for the disturbance; I just need to clarify something.” It shows you are aware of your impact on the discussion.

14. I hope this isn’t a nuisance.

This phrase indicates that you recognize your request might be seen as bothersome.

In a work environment, you could say, “I hope this isn’t a nuisance; I really need your expertise on this issue.” It shows that you value their knowledge.

In casual conversations, it can be used: “I hope this isn’t a nuisance, but I’d love to get your opinion on something.” This invites dialogue while showing respect for their time.

15. May I have a quick word?

This phrase is a concise way to request someone’s attention without causing too much disruption.

For instance, you might say, “May I have a quick word about our upcoming project?” This suggests that you have something important to discuss, yet it’s brief.

In informal contexts, you might say: “May I have a quick word? I need to share an idea with you.” This indicates urgency while maintaining a friendly tone.

16. Excuse me, could I ask something?

This phrase is polite and opens the door for dialogue without sounding pushy.

You might use it in a meeting: “Excuse me, could I ask something about the last point you made?” This shows engagement and interest in the discussion.

In casual settings, you can say: “Excuse me, could I ask something about that topic?” It encourages participation and input.

17. Sorry to bother you, but…

This phrase softens the impact of your request while still being direct.

When reaching out to a colleague, you might say, “Sorry to bother you, but do you have a moment to chat?” This acknowledges their time constraints.

In social situations, it could look like: “Sorry to bother you, but I wanted to ask if you’d like to join us.” It conveys respect while extending an invitation.

18. I hope I’m not distracting you.

This phrase expresses concern for the other person’s focus while making your request.

If you need to ask for input, you could say, “I hope I’m not distracting you from your work, but I’d love your feedback.” This acknowledges their priorities.

In casual conversations, you might say: “I hope I’m not distracting you; I just have a quick question.” It’s a gentle way to engage without overwhelming.

19. Excuse the interruption.

This is a simple and effective way to acknowledge your presence.

For example, if you need to share an idea in a meeting, you might say, “Excuse the interruption, but I have a suggestion.” This indicates your intent while being respectful.

In informal chats, you can say: “Excuse the interruption, but I wanted to share a funny story!” This keeps the conversation light and engaging.

20. May I take a moment of your time?

This phrase shows respect for the other person’s time and invites dialogue.

When needing to discuss something important, you could say, “May I take a moment of your time to review this report together?” This conveys urgency while being considerate.

In casual contexts, you might say: “May I take a moment of your time to catch up?” It shows appreciation for their attention.

21. Sorry for the inconvenience.

This phrase acknowledges that your request may create some disturbance for the other person.

In a professional setting, you might say, “Sorry for the inconvenience, but could you clarify that point?” This indicates that you value their input while being aware of their time.

In social situations, it can be used similarly: “Sorry for the inconvenience; I didn’t mean to interrupt your conversation.” This helps to ease into your request.

22. Pardon my disruption.

This phrase is an acknowledgment of your impact on the conversation.

In meetings, you might say, “Pardon my disruption; I have a question regarding the last topic.” This indicates that you respect the ongoing discussion.

In casual settings, it could look like: “Pardon my disruption; I just had a thought I wanted to share.” It keeps the conversation engaging.

23. May I have your attention briefly?

This phrase requests the other person’s focus without sounding demanding.

When needing to make an announcement, you might say, “May I have your attention briefly for an important update?” This signals the importance of what you’re about to say.

In social situations, it can be used: “May I have your attention briefly to share some good news?” This invites participation while showing respect.

24. Sorry to interrupt, but…

This phrase acknowledges the interruption while transitioning into your request.

For example, you might say, “Sorry to interrupt, but I have a quick question about our project.” It indicates your need for input while maintaining a respectful tone.

In less formal conversations, it can look like: “Sorry to interrupt, but I just remembered something I wanted to mention.” This encourages engagement while being polite.

25. I hope this is a good time.

Using this phrase indicates that you are considerate of the other person’s schedule.

You might say, “I hope this is a good time; I wanted to discuss our strategy.” It shows awareness of their current focus.

In casual settings, it could look like: “I hope this is a good time for a quick chat about our plans.” This keeps the tone friendly and approachable.

26. May I ask you something quickly?

This phrase implies that your question won’t take up much time, which can be reassuring.

For instance, in a meeting, you could say, “May I ask you something quickly regarding the project deadline?” This emphasizes urgency while being polite.

In everyday conversations, it works as well: “May I ask you something quickly about our plans for next week?” This shows that you are considerate of their time.

27. Sorry to intrude, but…

This phrase acknowledges that you are entering a conversation uninvited but does so politely.

For example, you might say, “Sorry to intrude, but I think I can help with that problem.” This shows that you are eager to contribute without being rude.

In social settings, you could say: “Sorry to intrude, but I just wanted to share my thoughts on that.” It invites engagement while respecting the ongoing discussion.

28. Pardon the break in your work.

This phrase acknowledges the disruption while expressing your intention.

If you’re approaching someone busy, you might say, “Pardon the break in your work; I have an urgent matter to discuss.” This shows you are aware of their current tasks.

In casual conversations, it might look like: “Pardon the break in your work, but I have some fun news!” This keeps the tone light and friendly.

29. Sorry to cut in, but…

This phrase implies a sudden interjection, but it’s delivered with a polite tone.

For example, during a discussion, you might say, “Sorry to cut in, but I have a critical point to add.” It shows respect while asserting your need to speak.

In casual conversations, it can be: “Sorry to cut in, but I wanted to share a funny story related to that.” It keeps the conversation engaging.

30. I hope I’m not intruding.

This phrase expresses concern for the other person’s boundaries while making your request.

If you’re joining a conversation, you might say, “I hope I’m not intruding; I have something to add.” This acknowledges their space while contributing to the discussion.

In casual settings, you can say: “I hope I’m not intruding; I just wanted to check in.” This keeps the tone friendly and inviting.

31. May I speak with you briefly?

This phrase shows respect for the other person’s time while inviting dialogue.

In a professional context, you might say, “May I speak with you briefly about the project updates?” This indicates the importance of the discussion.

In social situations, it could be: “May I speak with you briefly to catch up?” It encourages interaction while being considerate.

32. Sorry to interrupt your day.

This phrase is an empathetic acknowledgment of the other person’s time.

You might say, “Sorry to interrupt your day; I have an important question to ask.” It shows that you value their schedule.

In less formal situations, it can look like: “Sorry to interrupt your day; I just wanted to share some exciting news!” This keeps the conversation engaging.

33. Excuse my intrusion.

This phrase is a polite way to indicate you are entering a conversation.

If you’re entering a meeting, you might say, “Excuse my intrusion; I have something to contribute.” This shows that you respect the ongoing discussion.

In casual settings, it might sound like: “Excuse my intrusion; I just wanted to add my thoughts.” It encourages engagement while being polite.

34. May I interrupt your thoughts?

This phrase shows respect for the other person’s concentration while making your request.

You might say, “May I interrupt your thoughts for a moment to share something important?” It acknowledges their focus while asserting your need to speak.

In social situations, it can be used similarly: “May I interrupt your thoughts? I’d love to hear your perspective on this.” It invites dialogue while being respectful.

35. Sorry for the distraction.

This phrase conveys awareness of the potential disruption your presence might cause.

In meetings, you might say, “Sorry for the distraction, but I believe this is crucial to discuss.” It indicates urgency while maintaining respect.

In casual settings, it could look like: “Sorry for the distraction; I just wanted to share a quick story.” This keeps the mood light while inviting engagement.

36. Pardon the interruption.

This phrase is a direct acknowledgment of the disruption you’re causing.

For instance, during a discussion, you might say, “Pardon the interruption; I need to clarify something.” This shows respect for the ongoing conversation while asserting your need to speak.

In social contexts, it might be used: “Pardon the interruption, but I have an interesting fact to share!” This encourages participation while being polite.

37. May I steal a moment of your time?

This phrase is a lighthearted way to ask for attention while implying urgency.

You could say, “May I steal a moment of your time to discuss our project timeline?” This indicates that you have something important to discuss.

In casual settings, it might be: “May I steal a moment of your time for a quick chat?” This keeps the tone friendly and engaging.

38. Sorry to divert your attention.

This phrase acknowledges that you are pulling the focus away from something else.

In meetings, you might say, “Sorry to divert your attention, but I think this needs addressing.” It shows that you recognize the importance of the current topic.

In informal conversations, it could look like: “Sorry to divert your attention; I have a funny story to share!” This keeps the mood light while inviting engagement.

39. Excuse me, do you have a minute?

This phrase is a polite way to request someone’s attention without seeming demanding.

You might say, “Excuse me, do you have a minute to discuss our next steps?” This invites a brief conversation while respecting their time.

In casual settings, it could be: “Excuse me, do you have a minute? I’d love to hear your thoughts.” This keeps the interaction friendly.

40. Sorry for breaking in.

This phrase acknowledges that you are interjecting into an ongoing conversation.

You might say, “Sorry for breaking in, but I have a relevant point to share.” This conveys respect while asserting your need to speak.

In social situations, it might sound like: “Sorry for breaking in; I just thought of something funny to share!” This keeps the conversation lively.

41. May I add something here?

This phrase invites participation while respecting the ongoing discussion.

For instance, you might say, “May I add something here regarding our last topic?” This shows you are listening and want to contribute.

In casual conversations, you could say: “May I add something here? I think it’s important!” It invites engagement without being intrusive.

42. Apologies for the interruption.

This phrase is a straightforward acknowledgment of your impact on the conversation.

In meetings, you might say, “Apologies for the interruption; I’d like to address a key point.” It shows you value the ongoing discussion.

In casual settings, it can be used: “Apologies for the interruption; I have a funny thought I want to share!” This keeps the tone light and engaging.

43. I appreciate your patience.

This phrase shows respect and gratitude for the other person’s time.

For instance, you might say, “I appreciate your patience as I explain this.” It conveys respect for their attention.

In less formal conversations, it could look like: “I appreciate your patience while I gather my thoughts!” This helps create a friendly atmosphere.

44. Pardon the break in your flow.

This phrase acknowledges the disruption while showing awareness of the other person’s focus.

When entering a conversation, you could say, “Pardon the break in your flow; I just need to clarify something.” This indicates that you respect their ongoing thought process.

In casual situations, it might sound like: “Pardon the break in your flow; I have an idea I’d like to share.” It keeps the conversation inviting.

45. Sorry for intruding on your time.

This phrase is a polite way to acknowledge the potential disturbance your presence might cause.

In professional settings, you might say, “Sorry for intruding on your time; I have something important to discuss.” It shows respect for their schedule.

In casual settings, it could be: “Sorry for intruding on your time; I just wanted to share some fun news!” This keeps the tone light while being considerate.

46. May I join in on this conversation?

This phrase politely expresses your desire to participate in an ongoing discussion.

For example, if you’re at a social gathering, you might say, “May I join in on this conversation? I’d love to share my thoughts!” This invites engagement while being respectful.

In casual contexts, it could look like: “May I join in on this conversation? I have a funny story to tell!” This keeps the interaction lively.

47. Excuse me for interjecting.

This phrase is a respectful way to enter a discussion.

If you need to share your thoughts, you could say, “Excuse me for interjecting; I believe I have a helpful idea.” This shows you are mindful of the ongoing discussion.

In social settings, it might be: “Excuse me for interjecting; I just thought of something amusing!” It encourages engagement while maintaining politeness.

48. Sorry to take a moment of your time.

This phrase conveys awareness of the other person’s time and acknowledges your request.

For instance, you might say, “Sorry to take a moment of your time; I have a quick question.” It shows consideration for their schedule.

In casual conversations, you could say: “Sorry to take a moment of your time; I’d love your thoughts on this!” This keeps the tone friendly.

49. Pardon my brief request.

This phrase implies that your request is not a significant burden on their time.

You might say, “Pardon my brief request; I just need to confirm our meeting time.” This indicates respect for their attention.

In less formal contexts, it could look like: “Pardon my brief request; I’d love your opinion on something!” This keeps the conversation engaging.

50. May I chime in?

This phrase is a casual way to express your desire to add to the conversation.

You could say, “May I chime in with my thoughts on this topic?” This invites participation without sounding demanding.

In casual conversations, it might be: “May I chime in? I think it’s a great topic!” This encourages dialogue while keeping things light.

Final Words

Navigating conversations where you need to ask for input or interrupt someone can be delicate. By using these thoughtful phrases, you can engage others in a respectful manner while expressing your thoughts or ideas.

Remember to maintain a friendly tone and respect the other person’s time, ensuring your conversations are both productive and enjoyable.