How to Say ‘I'm very sorry.’ in Japanese
すみませんでした。
sumi mase n deshi ta
[soo-mee mah-seh n deh-shee tah]
🇯🇵 In Japan: [すみませんでした] is a stronger, more complete apology than plain [すみません]. In a dispute, it works well when the issue is settled and someone is clearly taking responsibility.
Phrase Breakdown
すみ
sumi
[soo-mee]
sorry; excuse me
Beginning of a common apology phrase.
遅れてすみませんでした。
I am sorry for being late.
ませ
mase
[mah-seh]
apology form part
Middle part of すみません, a polite apology.
ご迷惑をかけてすみませんでした。
I am sorry for causing trouble.
ん
n
[n]
negative ending part
Final sound in すみません, part of the fixed expression.
説明不足ですみませんでした。
I am sorry for the lack of explanation.
でし
deshi
[deh-shee]
was; polite past part
Part of the polite past ending in the apology.
誤解させてでしすみませんでした。
I am sorry for causing a misunderstanding.
た
ta
[tah]
past ending
Final past marker in the apology phrase.
不快な思いをさせてたすみませんでした。
I am sorry for causing an unpleasant experience.
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