I'm sorry
Use this to express sympathy or for more serious apologies. It literally means 'I feel it.'
Means 'excuse me' and is used for getting someone's attention or for a minor inconvenience. Use 'disculpa' for 'tú' (informal) and 'disculpe' for 'usted' (formal).
This means 'with permission' and is used when you need to pass by someone or interrupt briefly. It's like saying 'excuse me, may I pass?'
Sorry, I didn't see you.
I'm sorry, I arrived late.
Excuse me, where is the metro station?
Excuse me, I'm going to pass.
I'm very sorry about your problem.
'Perdón' is extremely common for minor incidents like bumping into someone. 'Lo siento' is reserved for more serious situations or expressing condolences. 'Disculpe' is the default formal way to get someone's attention.
The usage is similar, but you will hear 'lo siento' more often for general apologies. They also use the 'vosotros' form, 'perdonad' or 'disculpad', when addressing a group informally.
In addition to the standard phrases, 'qué pena' is extremely common for saying 'I'm sorry,' 'how embarrassing,' or 'excuse me' for small mistakes.
Due to the use of 'vos', you'll hear 'disculpame' instead of 'disculpa' for the informal address.
Using 'lo siento' for minor things like bumping into someone. — 'Lo siento' can sound overly dramatic for a small accident. Use 'perdón' instead. 'Lo siento' is better for 'I'm sorry you lost your job.'
Confusing 'perdón' and 'con permiso'. — 'Perdón' is an apology after you've done something (e.g., you bumped into them). 'Con permiso' is asking for permission before you do something (e.g., you want to get past them).
Using 'disculpa' (informal) with an older person or in a formal setting. — Always use the formal 'disculpe' when addressing someone with 'usted' (strangers, older people, authority figures). Using 'disculpa' can be seen as disrespectful.
Saying 'Soy siento'. — This is a direct translation of 'I am sorry' but is incorrect. The phrase is 'Lo siento' (I feel it). You don't need the verb 'ser' or 'estar'.
Found this useful? Save it for later.
how to say no problem in spanish
phrase