What is a natural expression to say when I need to interrupt someone while he/she is working?
For example, when I go to my teacher's office to ask him/her some questions, does it sound natural if I say something like "excuse me, do you have a minute?" or "excuse me, can I interrupt you for a sec?"

And is there any other expression you would say in this kind of situation?

Question

What is a natural expression to say when I need to interrupt someone while he/she is working?
For example, when I go to my teacher's office to ask him/her some questions, does it sound natural if I say something like "excuse me, do you have a minute?" or "excuse me, can I interrupt you for a sec?"

And is there any other expression you would say in this kind of situation?

Answer

Another form is 'Sorry to trouble you, but do you have a moment?'

By the way, 'may' is better than 'can' in your 'can I interrupt...' particularly if the person is in a bad mood and snaps back at you... 'Can!? You already HAVE!'

Answer

These are both the right answers if you need to interrupt people in the middle of their work.

Answer

Yes, both of those expressions are totally fine. You could also say, "Excuse me, sorry for interrupting, but may I speak with you for a moment?"

Answers · 6

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