How to Say ‘Excuse me’ in Japanese
すみません
sumi mase n
[su-mi ma-se n]
🇯🇵 In Japan: すみません is the standard way to get a staff member's attention in Japan; it's more natural than a direct ねえ or just starting your question. In restaurants it can also soften what comes next, like asking about parking.
Phrase Breakdown
すみ
sumi
[su-mi]
excuse
Used to attract attention or apologize.
すみません、駐車場はありますか？
Excuse me, is there a parking lot?
ませ
mase
[ma-se]
politeness
A respectful ending often used when apologizing.
すみません、予約しました
Excuse me, I have a reservation.
ん
n
[n]
ending particle
Particle that makes the phrase formal.
すみません、んです
Excuse me, it's...
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