Saying “sorry to keep you waiting” is a common courtesy, but varying your language can make your communication feel more genuine and less repetitive. Whether in professional or casual settings, having a repertoire of alternative phrases can enhance your tone and convey empathy more effectively.
Polite Alternatives for Professional Settings
- Thank you for your patience.
- I appreciate you waiting.
- Apologies for the delay.
- Thanks for holding on.
- I’m sorry for the wait.
- Thank you for bearing with me.
- Thank you for your understanding.
- I apologize for the inconvenience.
Casual Alternatives for Informal Conversations
- Sorry about the holdup.
- Hope I didn’t keep you waiting too long!
- Thanks for waiting on me.
- My bad for the delay.
- Thanks for sticking around.
- Really sorry for keeping you waiting.
Creative or Unique Expressions
- Thanks for your incredible patience!
- You’re the best for waiting — I owe you one!
- Apologies — time got away from me!
- I appreciate you hanging in there.
Context-Specific Examples
| Situation | Alternative Phrase |
|---|---|
| Client call or meeting | Thank you for your patience while I got everything set up. |
| Email response delay | Apologies for the delay — I wanted to ensure I gave your message my full attention. |
| Late to a social event | Sorry I’m late — hope you didn’t wait too long! |
| Tech support scenario | Thank you for holding — I appreciate your patience. |
Conclusion
Using alternative ways to say “sorry to keep you waiting” not only refreshes your communication but also shows that you value the other person’s time. Tailor your phrasing to the setting and the relationship to maintain professionalism or friendliness as needed.
FAQ
What’s a professional way to say “sorry for the wait”?
A professional alternative could be “Thank you for your patience” or “I apologize for the delay.”
Is it rude not to apologize for keeping someone waiting?
Yes, acknowledging someone’s time shows respect and courtesy. A brief thank you or apology goes a long way.
Can I use humor when saying sorry for the delay?
Yes, in informal settings, light humor like “I owe you one for waiting!” can be effective and endearing.
What if I kept someone waiting by accident?
Even if unintentional, it’s good etiquette to acknowledge the delay and thank them for their patience.
Name That Term 
Leave a comment