25 Other Ways to Say “Sorry to Bother You”

Sorry to bother you” is a polite way to ask for someone’s attention. It means you know they may be busy. This phrase shows respect and good manners.

But saying the same words again and again can feel boring. Want to sound fresh and still be polite? We’ve got better ways to say it.

In this article, you’ll find 25 friendly phrases. They all help you speak with care. Use them at work, in emails, or with friends.

What Does “Sorry to Bother You” Really Mean?

It’s a polite expression used to acknowledge that you may be interrupting someone. You’re apologizing for the disruption while signaling that your message matters.

Table: Breakdown of “Sorry to Bother You”

Element	Meaning
Apology	Softens the request; shows humility
Bother	Acknowledges possible inconvenience
You	Directs empathy to the listener

Why Seek Alternatives?

Repeating the same phrase can dull your message. Variety shows emotional intelligence and thoughtful communication.

Advantages of Using Alternatives

• Enhances professional communication
• Keeps tone fresh and authentic
• Allows you to better express politeness
• Avoids sounding overly apologetic

Disadvantages of Overusing “Sorry to Bother You”

• May imply your message lacks importance
• Can reduce impact over time
• Might come off as insecure in certain business contexts

1. I Hope This Isn’t a Bad Time

• Tone: Considerate
• Use when: You’re unsure of their availability

Example: “I hope this isn’t a bad time, but I had a quick clarification.”

2. When You Have a Moment

• Tone: Relaxed, respectful
• Use when: Your message isn’t urgent

Example: “When you have a moment, could we go over the report together?”

3. Excuse the Interruption

• Tone: Professional
• Use when: You must interrupt immediately

Example: “Excuse the interruption, but your input is needed in the meeting room.”

4. If You’re Available

• Tone: Flexible, humble
• Use when: You’re giving them the option to decline

Example: “If you’re available, could you help me review this proposal?”

5. Just a Quick Question

• Tone: Breezy, direct
• Use when: You truly need just a minute

Example: “Just a quick question—what’s the final due date for the client draft?”

6. Pardon the Interruption

• Tone: Formal
• Use when: Interrupting in-person conversations or meetings

Example: “Pardon the interruption, but the supplier’s on the line now.”

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7. Only If It’s Not an Inconvenience

• Tone: Thoughtful, humble
• Use when: You want to be extra cautious

Example: “Only if it’s not an inconvenience, would you mind reviewing my section?”

8. At Your Earliest Convenience

• Tone: Business formal
• Use when: Your request can wait a bit

Example: “Please send over the signed documents at your earliest convenience.”

9. Whenever You Get a Chance

• Tone: Casual but polite
• Use when: You want to remove pressure

Example: “Whenever you get a chance, take a look at the campaign graphics.”

10. I Don’t Mean to Distract You

• Tone: Mindful
• Use when: You’re aware they’re in the zone

Example: “I don’t mean to distract you, but I need help with this client email.”

11. Sorry If This Is Inconvenient

• Tone: Apologetic and sincere
• Use when: Your timing might be poor

Example: “Sorry if this is inconvenient, but can we shift our call to tomorrow?

12. I Would Appreciate Your Guidance

• Tone: Respectful, deferential
• Use when: You’re seeking help, especially from a superior

Example: “I would appreciate your guidance on presenting this analysis to leadership.”

13. If You Don’t Mind

• Tone: Warm and personal
• Use when: You’re requesting a small favor

Example: “If you don’t mind, could you glance over this document?”

14. I’ll Be Brief

• Tone: Reassuring
• Use when: You sense they’re busy

Example: “I’ll be brief—just need your okay before we proceed.”

15. Can I Steal You for a Second?

• Tone: Light and informal
• Use when: Talking to coworkers or teammates

Example: “Hey, can I steal you for a second to look at the budget sheet?”

16. I Hope I’m Not Interrupting

• Tone: Friendly but cautious
• Use when: Opening a message or popping in unannounced

Example: “I hope I’m not interrupting—I just had a quick question about the vendor list.”

17. I Appreciate Your Time

• Tone: Grateful and respectful
• Use when: Wrapping up a message or request

Example: “Thanks—I appreciate your time and insight!”

18. I Don’t Want to Take Up Too Much Time

• Tone: Aware and efficient
• Use when: Keeping it short matters

Example: “I don’t want to take up too much time, just one quick ask.”

19. Just Looking for a Quick Insight

• Tone: Curious and easygoing
• Use when: Seeking a light opinion

Example: “Just looking for a quick insight—do you like version A or B?”

20. No Rush, Just Checking In

• Tone: Relaxed and thoughtful
• Use when: Following up with no urgency

Example: “No rush, just checking in on the report from last week.”

21. Whenever You’re Free

• Tone: Flexible and patient
• Use when: Letting them decide the timing

Example: “Whenever you’re free, can we chat about the pitch deck?”

22. I Know You’re Busy, But…

• Tone: Acknowledging and considerate
• Use when: Your ask is important, but so is their time

Example: “I know you’re busy, but could you review this strategy outline?”

23. Would You Mind If I…?

• Tone: Polite, seeking permission
• Use when: You need to confirm if it’s okay to proceed

Example: “Would you mind if I tagged along for that client call?”

24. Could I Borrow a Minute?

• Tone: Soft and respectful
• Use when: Asking for a moment without urgency

Example: “Could I borrow a minute to get your view on something?”

25. Thank You for Your Time and Consideration

• Tone: Gracious
• Use when: Wrapping up any formal or important message

Example: “Thank you for your time and consideration regarding this request.”

Quick Reference Table: Tone and Use Guide

Phrase	Tone	Best Use
I hope this isn’t a bad time	Considerate	Initial outreach
Just a quick question	Breezy	Fast requests
At your earliest convenience	Formal	Non-urgent tasks
No rush, just checking in	Casual	Follow-ups
I would appreciate your guidance	Respectful	Mentorship/help

FAQs

Is it rude to say “Sorry to bother you”?

No, it’s not rude. But using it repeatedly can make you sound overly apologetic. Consider using one of the polite alternatives above.

What’s a better phrase to use in emails?

Try “When you have a moment” or “At your convenience” for a balanced, professional tone that respects their time.

Can I use these alternatives in personal messages too?

Absolutely. Many of these phrases work in both formal interaction and casual chats.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing wrong with saying “Sorry to bother you,” but using different words can sound fresher and more thoughtful. It helps you speak with confidence and still show respect.

Now you have 25 polite ways to ask for someone’s time. Whether you’re messaging a coworker or sending a quick email, these phrases keep your tone kind and professional. Choose the one that fits best. A little change in words can make your message friendlier and more effective.