请原谅我。

Place it at the start or end of your apology. You can say it when you are late for a coffee date. Use it if you accidentally spill a drink. It works best when you have actually done something wrong. It sounds sincere and humble. Just don't overdo the puppy-dog eyes unless you really mean it!

Use it in personal relationships when you've hurt someone's feelings. It is great for professional settings if you miss a deadline. Use it when you need to cancel plans last minute. It is perfect for those 'oops' moments that require a bit more weight than a simple 'sorry.' Even if you just stepped on someone's toe in the subway, it works.

Don't use it for tiny, trivial things like passing someone in a hallway. For that, use 对不起 or 不好意思. Avoid using it if you aren't actually sorry. It can sound sarcastic if your tone is too sharp. Also, don't use it to ask for a favor. It is for fixing past mistakes, not requesting future ones.

Chinese culture places a high value on 'face' and social harmony. Asking for forgiveness is a way to restore that harmony. Historically, admitting fault shows you are a person of good character. It shows you value the relationship more than your own ego. It's a bridge-builder in a society that prizes long-term connections.

If you want to be extra formal, try 请您原谅. The 您 adds a layer of deep respect. For a shorter version, just say 原谅我吧. The 吧 at the end makes it sound like a gentle plea. If you are texting, you might just see 原谅我. It’s like the difference between a formal letter and a quick sticky note.