How to Say ‘Excuse me’ in Japanese
すみません
すみません
💬 Usage Tip: This phrase is essential for getting someone's attention politely.
🇯🇵 In Japan: Japanese culture values politeness, so always start your question with [すみません].
Word-by-Word Breakdown
すみすみ
[sumi]
Excuse me
A common phrase used to get someone's attention or apologize.
すみません、レストランはどこですか？
Excuse me, where is the restaurant?
ませませ
[mase]
Excuse
Part of the word for excuse or pardon.
すみません、道を教えてください。
Excuse me, please tell me the way.
んん
[n]
Suffix for negative
Used to make verbs polite and negative.
まだ行けません。
I can't go yet.
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