How to Say ‘Excuse me / Sorry’ in Japanese
すみません
sumi mase n
[soo-mee mah-seh n]
💬 Usage Tip: Super flexible: use [すみません] to get attention, to apologize, or even to thank someone (like “sorry to bother you”). In shops you can call staff with [すみません！] (sue-mee-mah-sen).
🇯🇵 In Japan: In Japan it’s normal to start with [すみません] before a question—sounds considerate, not overly apologetic. It’s also a common “thank you” after someone helps you.
Phrase Breakdown
すみ
sumi
[soo-mee]
sorry; excuse me
A stem from the verb すむ (to be finished/settled). In すみません it forms a polite apology or attention-getter.
すみません、今ちょっといいですか。
Excuse me, do you have a moment now?
ませ
mase
[mah-seh]
(part of) -ません (polite negative)
This chunk is part of the polite negative ending -ません. In すみません, it’s part of the fixed polite expression meaning “sorry/excuse me.”
すみません、遅くなりました。
Sorry, I’m late.
ん
n
[n]
(final sound) n
The ん is the final nasal sound that completes ません. It’s part of the set phrase すみません.
すみません、こちらに座ってもいいですか。
Excuse me, may I sit here?
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation scenarios made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“Moved to Tokyo and the polite vs. casual speech levels were killing me. This app breaks it all down with real scenarios. My coworkers noticed the difference in weeks.”
Kevin Z., 31, Game Developer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager