Use sorry the British way by always adding “sorry” before you ask someone something. This could be to a waiter for the menu or a friend to pass you something. You can also use sorry when asking someone to repeat something, for example, “sorry, can you repeat that please?”.
The British will say 'sorry' to someone they don't know because they'd like to ask for some information, or to sit down next to them – and because not saying 'sorry' would constitute an even greater invasion of that stranger's privacy.
Expressing regret might be someone's preferred apology language, as it is the most common thing to say, “I'm sorry.” However, due to the ease of this type of apology, it can be frequently overused.. Common expressions of regret include: “I am sorry for forgetting your birthday, I know that day is important to you.”
British people say sorry to each other when they accidentally bump into them. They say sorry when they really mean “Please can you let me past you” or “Can I put my bag here?”” They say sorry to try and catch someone's attention, or because they want to ask for something in a restaurant.
Basic Etiquette
Always say “please” when asking someone for help. It is often considered impolite to ask a direct question about someone's salary, wealth, weight or age. Spitting in public is considered rude. If there is a line for something, always queue and wait for your turn.
2 syllables: "SORR" + "ee"
Saving others from embarrassment. One of the primary motivations for British politeness is our innate desire to save others from social embarrassment. We see it as our responsibility to do everything we can to avoid someone else feeling awkward.
Taboos in the UK
Do not stare. Do not be overly familiar with people you do not know well. Do not ask personal questions such as how much someone earns, who they voted for etc. Do not speak too loudly or cut into a conversation.
Leaning your elbows on the table whilst you are eating is also considered rude. Slurping or making other such loud noises whilst eating is completely frowned upon. As with yawning or coughing it is also considered very rude to chew open-mouthed or talk when there is still food in your mouth.
Apologize is the standard American English spelling. Apologise is the standard British English spelling.
Soz is Cockney slang for Sorry.
"Soz mate, didn't see you there."
Say to the person “I want to apologise for (my actions). I can see that my behaviour upset you.” “I feel embarrassed that I behaved in this way.” “I feel terrible that my actions caused you to be upset.” Take full responsibility for your actions. Resist the urge to give excuses.
Stereotypical British Phrases
Bloody hell! – An exclamation of surprise or frustration. Jolly good! – An expression of approval or satisfaction.
F*ck. The F-bomb is officially the UK's favourite swear word, as 1 in 4 adults say it's one of their most-favoured profanities (25%). Sh*t. Our survey found that this excrement-themed exclamation is the nation's second most-loved swear word, with 14% of respondents choosing this option as one of their faves.
Why do some British people use "me" instead of "my" before noun? Like me auntie...... Is it a different pronunciation or something? This is one of the features of the dominant accent of large parts of northern England (as well as occurring in some London accents).