French · everyday plans
How to say “I’ll be late” in French
The useful message is not only that you are late. Give an estimate so the other person can make a decision.
Three messages you can adapt
Désolé, je serai en retard.Use Désolée if that matches how you describe yourself
Sorry, I will be late.
Je devrais arriver vers 18 h 30.
I should arrive at around 6:30 p.m.
Le train est à l'arrêt, mais je te tiens au courant.Informal
The train has stopped, but I will keep you updated.
Your arrival island
Practise apology → delay length → expected arrival → next update. Replace every detail with the journey you actually make.