劳驾

láo jià

excuse me

HSK 5

Character Breakdown

Usage of 劳驾

劳驾 is a polite expression used to get someone's attention or to make a request in a courteous way. It is similar to 'excuse me' or 'pardon me' in English.

Context and Tone

It is often used when asking for help, directions, or when needing to interrupt someone politely. The tone is respectful and formal enough for everyday social interactions but not overly formal.

Common Collocations

  • 劳驾 + question/request: Used to politely ask for information or assistance.
  • 劳驾 + 帮忙: To politely request help.

Important Notes

Avoid using 劳驾 in very casual or intimate settings as it may sound too formal or distant. It is also different from 对不起, which is more about apologizing rather than politely requesting attention.

Summary

Use 劳驾 when you want to politely interrupt or ask someone for help, especially with strangers or in public places.

Example Sentences

劳驾,请问洗手间在哪里?

Láo jià, qǐng wèn xǐ shǒu jiān zài nǎ lǐ?

Excuse me, may I ask where the restroom is?

劳驾,能帮我拿一下那个包吗?

Láo jià, néng bāng wǒ ná yí xià nà ge bāo ma?

Excuse me, could you help me grab that bag?

劳驾,您能告诉我怎么去地铁站吗?

Láo jià, nín néng gào su wǒ zěn me qù dì tiě zhàn ma?

Excuse me, can you tell me how to get to the subway station?