How to Say ‘I'm sorry’ in Italian
Mi scusi
mee skoo-see
[mee skoo-see]
💬 Usage Tip: [Mi scusi] literally means "excuse me," but it's also a very common way to disagree politely or interrupt. The [scusi] form is for [Lei]; with someone you address as [tu], it becomes [scusami].
🇮🇹 In Italy: This is a good way to push back with a driver without escalating. In Italy, starting a complaint with [mi scusi] often sounds more effective than opening with something directly accusatory.
Phrase Breakdown
Mi
[mee]
Excuse me
A polite way to get someone's attention or express mild apology.
Mi scusi, il traffico è normale?
Excuse me, is the traffic normal?
scusi
[skoo-see]
Excuse me
Used to politely interrupt or ask for forgiveness.
Mi scusi, non ho sentito il traffico.
Excuse me, I didn't hear the traffic.
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