How do you say "Excuse me." in Japanese?

"Excuse me." in Japanese is "すみません。". This phrase is commonly used in Japan.

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How to Say ‘Excuse me.’ in Japanese

Q: What does "すみません。" mean in English?

"すみません。" means "Excuse me." in English. Usage tip: [すみません] is the万能 (all‑purpose) phrase: it can mean “excuse me,” “sorry,” or even “thanks (for the trouble).” In a landlord call, it’s a polite opener.

すみません。

sumi mase n

[soo-mee mah-seh n]

💬 Usage Tip: [すみません] is the万能 (all‑purpose) phrase: it can mean “excuse me,” “sorry,” or even “thanks (for the trouble).” In a landlord call, it’s a polite opener.

🇯🇵 In Japan: In Japan, starting with [すみません] softens the request and shows consideration—very normal before asking for repairs.

Phrase Breakdown

すみ

sumi

[soo-mee]

sorry; excuse me

Used to politely get someone’s attention or apologize. Common opener when speaking to your landlord or building manager.

Example

すみません、大家さん、お湯が出ません。

Excuse me, landlord, the hot water isn’t coming out.

ませ

mase

[mah-seh]

(part of) polite negative form

This segment helps form the polite negative ending in すみません / 〜ません. It’s not usually used alone.

Example

すみません、今ちょっとよろしいですか。

Excuse me, do you have a moment now?

ん

[n]

(part of) polite ending

Final ん in すみません or 〜ません. Helps make the phrase sound complete and polite; not used by itself.

Example

すみません、給湯器が動きません。

Excuse me, the water heater isn’t working.

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