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.

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.

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.

~~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.