3 apology starters

1. 1

   すみません

   sumimasen

   The Swiss Army knife of Japanese apologies. Works as 'excuse me,' 'sorry,' and 'thank you for the trouble.' Use it to get attention, apologize lightly, or acknowledge someone's effort.

   Use when getting someone's attention, light apology, bumping into someone, thanking a stranger for help

   すみません。

   sumimasen.

   Excuse me, sorry to bother you.

2. 2

   ごめんなさい

   gomen nasai

   A direct 'I'm sorry', more personal than すみません. Used when you feel genuine regret. Appropriate with people you know, but less common with strangers.

   Use when personal apology, being late to meet a friend, making a mistake that affects someone

   遅れてごめんなさい。

   okurete gomen nasai.

   I'm sorry I'm late.

3. 3

   失礼します

   shitsurei shimasu

   Literally 'I will be rude', used before doing something potentially intrusive. Entering a room, leaving early, passing in front of someone, or interrupting.

   Use when entering a room, leaving before others, passing in front of someone, interrupting a conversation

   失礼します。

   shitsurei shimasu.

   Excuse me (entering a room).

Saved phrases collect at practice → saved; quiz them and they enter your review queue.