How to Say ‘Excuse me’ in Japanese
すみません
すみません
💬 Usage Tip: A versatile phrase for getting someone's attention or apologizing.
🇯🇵 In Japan: Use it to preface a request to the driver, showing courtesy.
Word-by-Word Breakdown
すみすみ
[sumi]
I'm sorry
Used to apologize or get someone's attention in a polite manner.
すみません、近くに止めてください。
Excuse me, please stop nearby.
ませませ
[mase]
to be
Part of the polite form of apology or interruption.
すみません、ですがここで降りたいです。
Sorry, but I want to get off here.
んん
[n]
suffix negation
Particle used at the end to form polite expressions.
すみません、もう少し先まで。
Excuse me, a little further please.
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