How to Say ‘I'm very sorry.’ in Japanese
申し訳ございません。
moushiwake gozai mase n
[moh-shee-WAH-keh goh-zah-ee mah-seh n]
🇯🇵 In Japan: This is a formal apology that staff use with customers, much stronger than すみません. It often just means they can't give you what you asked for, so don't expect anything to be wrong.
Phrase Breakdown
申し訳
moushiwake
[moh-shee-WAH-keh]
excuse; apology
Formal word for an excuse; used in very polite apologies.
申し訳ありません。
I'm very sorry.
ござい
gozai
[goh-zah-ee]
to be; to exist (very polite)
A very polite version of あります, often used by staff in restaurants and hotels.
駐車場がございます。
There is a parking lot.
ませ
mase
[mah-seh]
polite negative (part of ません)
「ませ」 is part of 「ません」, the polite negative form.
はいていません。
I haven’t vomited.
ん
n
[n]
negative ending
The final sound completing the negative polite form.
一人は魚が食べられません。
One person cannot eat fish.
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 feedback on what you say out loud
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Lessons for Your Situation
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 made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“I hop cities every few months and this is the only app that actually prepares me for living somewhere, not just visiting. Tokyo was the real test — passed with flying colors.”
James O., 28, Remote Worker
“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