I didn't mean to
A slightly more formal way to say 'It was not my intention'. Use it when you want to be very clear and polite.
Translates to 'I didn't want to do it'. It's a direct way to deny intent, often used before explaining what happened.
Means 'Sorry, it was an accident'. This is perfect for physical mishaps like bumping into someone or dropping something.
Oh, I stepped on you! Sorry, I didn't mean to.
The glass broke. Really, it wasn't my intention.
I'm sorry if my comment bothered you. I didn't mean to do it.
I spilled coffee on your papers. I'm so sorry, it was an accident!
'Fue sin querer' and 'No fue mi intención' are universally understood and used everywhere.
You might hear the playful phrase 'fue sin querer queriendo', from the TV show 'El Chavo del Ocho'. It implies an accidental action that one secretly wanted to do. It's used humorously, not for serious apologies.
In addition to the common phrases, 'No fue a propósito' (It wasn't on purpose) is also frequently used.
The usage is identical to Latin America. 'Fue sin querer' and 'No fue mi intención' are the standard expressions.
Using 'significar' — Don't say '*No quise significar...'. 'Significar' refers to the definition of a word, not a person's intention. Use 'querer' (as in 'sin querer' or 'no quise') or the noun 'intención' instead.
Using the verb 'intencionar' — Saying '*No intencioné...' is grammatically awkward and unnatural. While the verb exists, native speakers almost always use the noun phrase 'No fue mi intención'.
Confusing lack of intent with dislike — Saying 'No me gustó hacerlo' means 'I didn't like doing it', which is different from not intending to do it. To express a lack of intent, stick with 'Fue sin querer' or 'No quise hacerlo'.
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