Thread: извините vs. простите

So I should say "извините" when I ask for direction, but "простите" when I step on someone's toe?

Originally Posted by Ann

So I should say "извините" when I ask for direction

yes

Originally Posted by Ann

"простите" when I step on someone's toe?

i'd say извините because i did it unintentionally. There weren't any mistakes or wrong decisions, it just happend.

Anyway, it is not that strict. Everyone has his own style of speaking.