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How to Say ‘I'm sorry.’ in Portuguese

Peço desculpa.

PEH-soo desh-KOOL-pah

[PEH-soo desh-KOOL-pah]

🇵🇹 In Portugal: In Portugal, [Peço desculpa] is a bit more formal and measured than [desculpe] or [desculpa]. In a tense exchange, it can help you sound calm without sounding weak.

Phrase Breakdown

Peço

[PEH-soo]

I apologize

A polite expression used to say sorry or excuse me.

Example

Quando houve confusão, disse: "Peço desculpa."

When there was confusion, I said: "I apologize."

desculpa

[desh-KOOL-pah]

apology

Used in the expression 'peço desculpa' meaning 'I apologize' or 'sorry.'

Example

Ela respondeu com educação: "Peço desculpa."

She answered politely: "I apologize."

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