How to Say ‘Excuse me’ in Japanese
すみません
すみません
💬 Usage Tip: Pronounced (soo-mee-mah-sen). Use when you want to get someone's attention.
🇯🇵 In Japan: Often used in Japan before asking for help or making requests.
Word-by-Word Breakdown
すみすみ
[sumi]
excuse
This is part of 'Sumimasen', meaning 'Excuse me' or 'I'm sorry'.
すみませんが、席はどちらですか？
Excuse me, but where is the seat?
ませませ
[mase]
not
This suffix is part of polite negative expression in verbs.
まだ来ませんでした。
He hasn't come yet.
んん
[n]
negative
This is used as part of negative conjugation in verb endings.
見たくありません。
I don't want to see it.
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