How to Say "Excuse Me" in Japanese
The usual way to say “excuse me” in Japanese is すみません (sumimasen). It works for getting someone’s attention, a light apology, or excusing yourself.
The most common way
sumimasen
Excuse me—used to get attention, apologize lightly, or excuse yourself.
How to say it: Keep the beats short and even; the “u” in “su” is very light, almost dropped, and the final “n” is a full short beat.
Other ways to say it
- casual spoken
suimasen
The common spoken shortening of すみません; excuse me / sorry, with a slightly less formal feel.
When to use it: Use with people you know or in quick everyday situations where full politeness isn’t needed.
- formal
shitsurei shimasu
Excuse me / pardon me, used when entering or leaving a room, interrupting, or passing in front of someone.
When to use it: Use in offices, classrooms, or formal settings when you need to interrupt or enter or leave.
- very polite
osoreirimasu
A very polite “excuse me” or “I’m sorry to trouble you,” often before asking a favor.
When to use it: Use with clients, superiors, or in service settings when you need to be especially polite.
- soft attention-getter
anou
Um, excuse me—a soft way to start speaking to a stranger or someone you hesitate to interrupt.
When to use it: Use to gently get someone’s attention before asking a question; add すみません for more politeness.
- at the door
gomen kudasai
Excuse me—said at someone’s door or entrance to announce your visit.
When to use it: Use when visiting a home or entering a small shop, not for bumping into someone.
In a conversation
- A
、。
Sumimasen, eki wa doko desu ka.
Excuse me, where is the station?
- B
。
Ano shingou o migi ni magatte kudasai.
Please turn right at that traffic light.
- A
。
Arigatou gozaimasu.
Thank you.
Common mistakes
ごめんなさい、駅はどこですか。→ すみません、駅はどこですか。ごめんなさい is a real apology for something you did wrong; it sounds odd when simply stopping a stranger.
エクスキューズミー→ すみませんThe English phrase is not natural Japanese; use すみません to get attention.