Özür dilerim
phrase
Pronunciation: /ur-ZEWR dee-leh-rim/
English Meaning
I'm sorry / I apologize
“Özür dilerim” in Example Sentences
Geciktim, özür dilerim.
I'm late, I apologize.
Sizi beklettiğim için özür dilerim.
I'm sorry for keeping you waiting.
Özür dilerim, yanlış numarayı aradım.
I'm sorry, I called the wrong number.
Usage Note
The person you apologise to takes the ablative: 'Senden özür dilerim' (I apologise to you).
Grammar & Usage
Used for making a genuine apology when you have made a mistake. Stronger than 'Affedersiniz'.
Word Origin & Etymology
From Arabic 'uḏr' (excuse/apology) + Turkish 'dilerim' (I wish/request).
Cultural Context
Reserved for genuine apologies when you have made a mistake. It carries more emotional weight than 'affedersiniz'.
Keep Learning
- Beginner Basics flashcardsPractise “Özür dilerim” with the Greetings & Essential Phrases words
- Ablative (-den)Grammar lesson · Nouns & Noun Phrases
- Present Simple / Aorist (-r)Grammar lesson · Verbs & Conjugation
- Turkish Greetings & Polite Phrases: Sound Like a LocalGuide · read more about this topic
- Turkish-English DictionaryBrowse all words A–Z
Related Words from Beginner Basics
Practice “Özür dilerim” with Flashcards
Beginner Basics
Master this word along with others in the Greetings & Essential Phrases category.