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Pattern Family 13 — Excusing Yourself Before Speaking

Hindi Pattern

  • एक बात पूछनी थी।
  • एक बात कहनी थी।
  • अगर बुरा न मानो...
  • परेशान तो नहीं कर रहा?

Natural English Expressions

  • Can I ask you something?
  • I wanted to ask you something.
  • Do you have a quick second?
  • I hope I'm not bothering you.
  • Can I run something by you?

Nuance

Used to soften the start of a conversation or request.

Examples

  • Can I ask you something?
  • I hope I'm not bothering you.
  • Do you have a quick second?

Common Mistakes

❌ One thing I wanted to tell.

✅ I wanted to tell you something.

Memory Tip

Soften the opening before making your request.