Translation guide
In Japanese, apologizing is highly context-dependent. The most common word is すみません, which can mean 'sorry', 'excuse me', or 'thank you' depending on the situation. For deeper apologies, ごめんなさい is used, while formal situations call for 申し訳ありません. Understanding the nuance and level of formality is key.
To say sorry for a small error, bumping into someone, or causing a slight trouble.
The most versatile apology. Used for minor mistakes, getting someone's attention, or expressing gratitude for a favor. Slightly polite.
すみません、遅れました。
Sorry I'm late.
あ、すみません。
Oh, sorry.
A more personal apology, often used among friends, family, or when you feel genuinely sorry. Less formal than すみません.
ごめんなさい、忘れちゃった。
Sorry, I forgot.
Casual form of ごめんなさい, used with close friends or family. Not for formal situations.
ごめん、今気づいた。
Sorry, I just noticed.
To express a sincere or formal apology, often in business or serious situations.
A formal and humble apology. Used in business, customer service, or when you have made a significant mistake.
ご迷惑をおかけして、申し訳ありません。
I am sorry for the inconvenience.
Even more polite than 申し訳ありません. Often used in very formal business settings or when speaking to customers.
大変申し訳ございません。
I am terribly sorry.
Literally 'I apologize'. Very formal and often used in official statements or press conferences.
心より謝罪します。
I sincerely apologize.
To apologize for a mistake or wrongdoing in a personal relationship.
The standard apology among friends, classmates, or family. Shows genuine regret.
本当にごめんなさい。
I'm really sorry.
Literally 'I was bad'. A casual, masculine-leaning apology. Used among close friends.
悪かった、もうしない。
Sorry, I won't do it again.
To say 'I'm sorry to hear that' or express condolences.
Used to express sympathy for someone's misfortune. Can sound a bit distant or formal.
お気の毒に。何かお手伝いできることはありますか？
I'm sorry to hear that. Is there anything I can do to help?
Means 'That's unfortunate' or 'I'm sorry to hear that'. Less personal than お気の毒に.
それは残念です。
I'm sorry to hear that.
To say 'Excuse me' or 'Sorry' when you need to ask a question or pass by.
The standard way to get someone's attention politely, like 'Excuse me'.
すみません、駅はどこですか？
Excuse me, where is the station?
A slightly softer way to interrupt or get attention, like 'Excuse me for a moment'.
ちょっとすみません、通ります。
Excuse me, coming through.
To say sorry for not responding sooner or being late.
Standard apology for a late reply. Can be used in emails or messages.
返事が遅くなってすみません。
Sorry for the late reply.
General apology for being late.
遅れてすみません、電車が遅れました。
Sorry I'm late, the train was delayed.
すみません is more versatile and can be used for thanks, apologies, and getting attention. ごめんなさい is a more personal apology and is not used for thanks or getting attention. In formal settings, すみません is safer, while ごめんなさい can sound childish if used in business.
すみません、ありがとうございます。
Thank you very much (literally 'Sorry, thank you').
ごめんなさい、許してください。
I'm sorry, please forgive me.
In English, 'sorry' is used frequently for minor things. In Japanese, apologizing too much can sound insincere or overly submissive. Use the appropriate level of apology for the situation.