Finding the right words to acknowledge someone’s time while remaining professional and polite can make a big difference in communication. Instead of using “Sorry to bother you,” which might sound apologetic or overly cautious, there are many other ways to express respect for someone’s time without undermining your confidence.
What Does “Sorry to Bother You” Mean?
“Sorry to bother you” is a phrase often used to acknowledge someone’s time and show politeness when reaching out with a request. While it can be a courteous way to start a message, it might also sound overly apologetic or make you seem hesitant, especially in professional settings.
Is It Professional/Polite to Say “Sorry to Bother You”?
Yes, it’s polite, but it’s not always the best choice in professional communication. Overusing apologies in the workplace can unintentionally make you seem less confident or like you’re interrupting when your request might be important.
Using more assertive yet respectful alternatives can help you sound polite, professional, and confident.
Pros & Cons of Saying “Sorry to Bother You”
Pros:
- Using these alternatives ensures your message sounds polite yet assertive, rather than overly apologetic.
- Phrases like “At your earliest convenience” show consideration for the other person’s schedule while still making a request.
- Thoughtful wording makes people more likely to engage and respond promptly.
Cons:
- Even with polite phrasing, repeated follow-ups can still come across as pushy.
- In relaxed work environments, phrases like “At your earliest convenience” might sound overly stiff.
- Giving the recipient too much flexibility may result in delays if the request is time-sensitive.
Synonyms For “Sorry to Bother You”
- I hope I’m not interrupting.
- I appreciate your time.
- I know you’re busy, so I’ll be brief.
- I appreciate your help.
- I wanted to quickly check in on
- Just a quick follow-up on
- Would you have a moment to discuss?
- I hope I’m not catching you at a bad time.
- I wanted to reach out about
- Whenever you have a moment, could we discuss?
- Thanks for your time – I just had a quick question.
- If you have a spare moment, I’d love your input on
- I know you have a lot on your plate, but
- Apologies for the interruption, but I need your insight on
- I’d really value your thoughts on
- At your earliest convenience, could you let me know?
- I don’t mean to rush you, but I wanted to check on
- When you have a chance, could you take a look at?
- Not to take up too much of your time, but
- Just flagging this for your attention when you get a moment.
1. I hope I’m not interrupting.
This phrase acknowledges the possibility of an interruption without sounding overly apologetic.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Quick Question on Project Deadline
Hi [Name],
I hope I’m not interrupting, but I wanted to check in on the status of [project/task]. Let me know when you have a moment to discuss.
Best,
[Your Name]
Best Use:
- When reaching out unexpectedly
- When emailing someone with a busy schedule
- When asking for a quick favor
Additional Note:
This phrase keeps your message polite yet confident.
2. I appreciate your time.
This focuses on gratitude rather than apology, making it a strong professional choice.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Quick Follow-Up
Hi [Name],
I appreciate your time and just wanted to follow up on [topic]. Let me know if you need any further details.
Best,
[Your Name]
Best Use:
- When making a follow-up request
- When showing appreciation
- When reaching out to busy professionals
Additional Note:
Expressing appreciation instead of apologizing makes your request feel valued rather than intrusive.
3. I know you’re busy, so I’ll be brief.
This lets the recipient know you respect their time while keeping your request concise.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Quick Request Regarding [Topic]
Hi [Name],
I know you’re busy, so I’ll be brief. Could you confirm [specific request]? Thanks for your time!
Best,
[Your Name]
Best Use:
- When reaching out to senior colleagues
- When keeping the message short
- When requesting something urgent
Additional Note:
This phrase acknowledges their schedule while keeping your message efficient.
4. I appreciate your help.
This makes the interaction positive and appreciative rather than apologetic.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Assistance with Report
Hi [Name],
I appreciate your help with [task], and I wanted to follow up on [specific detail]. Let me know if there’s anything I can do on my end.
Best,
[Your Name]
Best Use:
- When requesting assistance
- When following up on a task
- When working on a collaborative project
Additional Note:
Shifting from apology to appreciation makes a stronger impression.
5. I wanted to quickly check in on
This keeps the request casual yet professional.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Quick Check-In
Hi [Name],
I wanted to quickly check in on [topic] and see if you had any updates. Let me know at your convenience.
Best,
[Your Name]
Best Use:
- When following up
- When asking for updates
- When sending a reminder
Additional Note:
This phrase sounds polite yet purposeful, ensuring your message is well received.
6. Just a quick follow-up on
This phrase is direct and efficient, making it ideal for follow-ups without sounding impatient.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Quick Follow-Up on [Project/Task]
Hi [Name],
I hope you’re doing well! Just a quick follow-up on [specific topic]—I wanted to check if there are any updates. Let me know when you have a moment.
Best,
[Your Name]
Best Use:
- Following up on emails or pending tasks
- Sending reminders professionally
- Keeping communication clear and to the point
Additional Note:
This phrase ensures your follow-up is polite, concise, and professional.
7. Would you have a moment to discuss?
A polite and respectful way to ask for someone’s time without sounding intrusive.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Quick Discussion on [Topic]
Hi [Name],
I hope you’re having a great day. Would you have a moment to discuss [specific topic]? Let me know when it’s convenient for you.
Best,
[Your Name]
Best Use:
- Requesting a short meeting or discussion
- Asking for feedback
- Bringing up important matters politely
Additional Note:
This phrase works well in both formal and casual professional settings.
8. I hope I’m not catching you at a bad time.
A warm and considerate way to start a conversation while checking in on availability.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Quick Question – Hope It’s a Good Time
Hi [Name],
I hope I’m not catching you at a bad time, but I wanted to check in on [topic]. Let me know if now works or if you’d prefer another time.
Best,
[Your Name]
Best Use:
- When calling or messaging unexpectedly
- When reaching out to a busy colleague
- When requesting urgent assistance
Additional Note:
This phrase shows empathy while ensuring the recipient feels comfortable responding.
9. I wanted to reach out about
A polite and neutral way to introduce your request.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Reaching Out About [Topic]
Hi [Name],
I wanted to reach out about [specific topic] and see if you had any thoughts. Let me know when you have a moment to discuss.
Best,
[Your Name]
Best Use:
- Introducing new topics
- Starting conversations professionally
- Keeping communication smooth
Additional Note:
This phrase is friendly, confident, and widely used in business communication.
10. Whenever you have a moment, could we discuss?
A gentle, non-urgent way to request someone’s time.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Discussion Request When You Have a Moment
Hi [Name],
I hope you’re doing well. Whenever you have a moment, could we discuss [specific topic]? Let me know when it’s convenient.
Best,
[Your Name]
Best Use:
- When you don’t need an immediate response
- When you want to respect the recipient’s schedule
- When scheduling a discussion
Additional Note:
This phrase keeps the request open-ended, making it less pressuring.
11. Thanks for your time – I just had a quick question.
This phrase expresses gratitude upfront while keeping the message light.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Quick Question – Appreciate Your Time
Hi [Name],
Thanks for your time – I just had a quick question regarding [specific topic]. Let me know if you have a moment to chat.
Best,
[Your Name]
Best Use:
- Asking brief questions
- Acknowledging the recipient’s time
- Maintaining a warm and professional tone
Additional Note:
Showing appreciation upfront encourages a positive response.
12. If you have a spare moment, I’d love your input on
A thoughtful way to request feedback without urgency.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Request for Your Input
Hi [Name],
If you have a spare moment, I’d love your input on [specific topic]. Let me know if you’d be open to a quick discussion.
Best,
[Your Name]
Best Use:
- Seeking feedback or guidance
- When the request is not urgent
- When valuing someone’s expertise
Additional Note:
This phrase sounds professional and appreciative at the same time.
13. I know you have a lot on your plate, but
A considerate way to acknowledge a busy schedule.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Quick Check-In When You Have Time
Hi [Name],
I know you have a lot on your plate, but I wanted to check in on [specific topic]. Let me know when it’s convenient for you.
Best,
[Your Name]
Best Use:
- When reaching out to a busy colleague or manager
- When acknowledging workload before making a request
- When sending a polite follow-up
Additional Note:
This phrase helps show empathy while keeping communication professional.
14. Apologies for the interruption, but I need your insight on
A professional way to acknowledge an interruption.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Quick Request for Your Insight
Hi [Name],
Apologies for the interruption, but I need your insight on [specific topic]. Let me know when you have a moment.
Best,
[Your Name]
Best Use:
- When requesting expert advice
- When addressing someone senior
- When acknowledging a slight disruption
Additional Note:
This keeps your request polite yet direct.
15. I’d really value your thoughts on
This phrase expresses appreciation for the recipient’s expertise, making your request feel more like a collaboration than an interruption.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Your Thoughts on [Topic]
Hi [Name],
I really value your thoughts on [specific topic] and would love to hear your perspective. Let me know if you have a moment to discuss.
Best,
[Your Name]
Best Use:
- Seeking advice or feedback
- Requesting expert opinions
- Encouraging collaboration
Additional Note:
This phrase makes your request feel thoughtful and appreciative rather than demanding.
16. At your earliest convenience, could you let me know?
A professional yet flexible way to ask for a response without rushing the recipient.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Quick Update Request
Hi [Name],
At your earliest convenience, could you let me know the status of [specific topic]? No rush—just checking in when you have a moment.
Best,
[Your Name]
Best Use:
- When requesting a non-urgent update
- When following up on pending tasks
- When respecting the recipient’s schedule
Additional Note:
This phrase is polite, professional, and allows for flexibility.
17. I don’t mean to rush you, but I wanted to check on
A considerate way to check in on something without seeming impatient.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Quick Check-In on [Topic]
Hi [Name],
I don’t mean to rush you, but I wanted to check on [specific topic]. Let me know when you get a chance—appreciate your time!
Best,
[Your Name]
Best Use:
- When following up on pending tasks
- When gently nudging someone for a response
- When maintaining a professional yet friendly tone
Additional Note:
This phrase keeps the tone light and considerate while still pushing for an update.
18. When you have a chance, could you take a look at?
A casual yet professional way to ask someone to review something without urgency.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Review Request When You Have Time
Hi [Name],
When you have a chance, could you take a look at [specific document/project]? I’d love to hear your thoughts when it’s convenient for you.
Best,
[Your Name]
Best Use:
- When requesting feedback or approval
- When respecting someone’s time constraints
- When sending a non-urgent request
Additional Note:
This phrase is polite, non-intrusive, and easygoing.
19. Not to take up too much of your time, but
This phrase acknowledges the recipient’s busy schedule while introducing your request.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Quick Question—Won’t Take Too Much Time
Hi [Name],
Not to take up too much of your time, but I had a quick question about [specific topic]. Let me know if you have a moment to chat!
Best,
[Your Name]
Best Use:
- When making a small request
- When sending a quick check-in
- When reaching out to a busy person
Additional Note:
This phrase keeps the message respectful and to the point.
20. Just flagging this for your attention when you get a moment.
A subtle, low-pressure way to remind someone about a pending task.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Flagging This for Your Attention
Hi [Name],
Just flagging this for your attention when you get a moment. Let me know if you have any thoughts!
Best,
[Your Name]
Best Use:
- When sending gentle reminders
- When highlighting important emails
- When nudging someone without being pushy
Additional Note:
This phrase is casual yet professional, making it great for internal communication.
Conclusion
Using polished and confident language helps you sound professional without sounding apologetic. These 20 alternatives ensure that you communicate effectively, politely, and respectfully without over-apologizing.
