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How to Say ‘Sorry/Excuse me’ in Portuguese

Desculpe

desh-KOOL-peh

[desh-KOOL-peh]

🇵🇹 In Portugal: Desculpe works well with strangers for both "sorry" and "excuse me." It is a safe polite choice when you need someone's attention or have bumped into someone.

Phrase Breakdown

Desculpe

[desh-KOOL-peh]

Excuse me / I'm sorry

Used to apologize for a mistake or to get someone's attention.

Example

Ele disse 'Desculpe' após pisar no pé de alguém.

He said 'Sorry' after stepping on someone's foot.

Related guides

The Portuguese You Actually Need in Your First Month in PortugalThe European Portuguese phrases for your first weeks in Portugal: paperwork, renting a flat, the bank, the health centre, cafés, trains and your new neighbours.

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