Meaning

Primary

Excuse Me

Alternatives

I'm Sorry, Sorry

Word Type

expression

Explanation

Sue me, Ma Sen! (すみません), you yell at Ma Sen, before quickly adding "Excuse meI'm sorry, so sorry!" You shouldn't have shouted at Ma Sen like that. You hope she won’t actually sue you.

You can use すみません both to apologize and to get someone’s attention. This expression is really common in Japan, and dropping it in wherever you can will help you blend right in!

Pronunciation

すみません
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Context

Pattern of Use

Common Word Combinations

  • あ、すみません

    oh excuse me

    いきなりすみません

    sorry to be so abrupt

Context Sentences

あ、すみません!ごめんなさい!

Oh, excuse me! I'm sorry!

すみません、オーシャンホテルってどこですか。

Excuse me, where's the "Ocean Hotel"?

すみません、今ちょっといいですか?

Excuse me, is now a good time?