Excuse me, may I pass?
A shorter, more direct version of 'Con permiso'. Very common and slightly more casual, perfect for crowded spaces.
Use this to get someone's attention before passing. It's like saying 'Excuse me...' and then gesturing to move.
A more complete sentence meaning 'Excuse me, can I pass?'. It is very polite and clear.
Excuse me, please. I need to get off at the next stop.
Excuse me, may I pass? The bathroom is at the back.
(In a crowded market) Excuse me, excuse me. Thanks.
Sir, excuse me. You are blocking the door.
'Con permiso' is the universal standard for asking to pass. The shorter 'Permiso' is also used everywhere and is slightly more informal.
In Spain, while 'Con permiso' is understood, it's much more common to say 'Perdón' when you need to pass someone.
'Con permiso' is the default polite phrase. 'Permiso' is used constantly in crowded places like markets or the metro.
Besides 'Con permiso,' you might also hear the very polite question '¿Me da permiso?' (Will you give me permission?).
'Permiso' is the most frequent and natural-sounding option. 'Perdón' is also used often, similar to its use in Spain.
Using 'Lo siento' to pass someone. 'Lo siento' means 'I am sorry' for serious situations or apologies. For passing, it sounds overly dramatic. Use 'con permiso' instead.
Confusing 'disculpe' and 'con permiso'. 'Disculpe' is best for getting attention first (like 'pardon me'), while 'con permiso' is the action phrase for asking to pass through a space.
Pushing past someone without saying anything. In Latin American culture, it is considered rude not to ask for permission to pass, even in a crowded space. A quick 'permiso' is expected.