How to Say ‘I'm sorry’ in Japanese
申し訳ありません
もうしわけありません
💬 Usage Tip: A very formal apology.
🇯🇵 In Japan: It's often used by staff in customer service to convey a sincere apology.
Word-by-Word Breakdown
申し訳もうしわけ
[moushiwake]
apology
A formal expression of regret.
申し訳ありませんが、在庫はございません。
I am sorry, but we have no stock.
ありあり
[ari]
exist
Indicates existence of inanimate objects.
本があります。
There is a book.
ませませ
[mase]
negation
Negates the verb it's attached to.
行きません。
I will not go.
んん
[n]
negation particle
Ends a sentence in a negative form.
今はできません。
I can't do it now.
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