disculpe
/diskulpe/from spelling rules
To say "excuse me politely" in Spanish, use disculpe.
Disculpe is a polite phrase used to get someone's attention or to apologize for a minor interruption. For instance, Perdón is a common and neutral way to say "excuse me" in both formal and informal contexts and it is often used as a quick apology for a physical bump or a small mistake. If you are trying to move through a crowd or are asking for permission to pass, you should use Con permiso, which translates to "with permission".
Which one should you use?
Disculpe is specifically used when you want to get someone's attention or apologize politely. In contrast, perdón is more commonly used for a quick apology after making a mistake or bumping into someone. If you are seeking to pass through a space, use Con permiso instead.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form disculpa is the informal version of the phrase, whereas disculpe is the formal version.
How do you pronounce it?
/diskulpe/
Did you know?
- While disculpe asks for forgiveness, the word culpa actually shares a root with the English word 'culprit'.
- The formal disculpe uses the imperative mood, meaning you are technically commanding the other person to excuse you.
- Although disculpe is used to get attention, in certain contexts it can be used sarcastically to express indignation, similar to saying 'Excuse me?' in a challenging tone.
Examples in context
- Perdón, ¿me podría ayudar con algo?Excuse me, could you help me with something?
- Perdón por interrumpir, pero necesito hablar contigo.Sorry for interrupting, but I need to speak with you.
- ¿Con permiso, puedo pasar?Excuse me, can I pass through?
- Con permiso, ¿está ocupado este asiento?Excuse me, is this seat taken?
- Disculpe, ¿sabe a qué hora cierra el banco?Excuse me, do you know what time the bank closes?
- Disculpe, ¿le molestaría cerrar la ventana, por favor?Excuse me, would you mind closing the window, please?
- Perdona, ¿me podrías indicar dónde está la estación de autobuses?Excuse me, could you tell me where the bus station is?
- Disculpe, ¿sabe qué hora es?Excuse me, do you know what time it is?
- Disculpe, ¿podría repetir eso?Excuse me, could you repeat that?
- Disculpe, se le cayó la cartera.Excuse me, you dropped your wallet.
Example conversation
Daniel is trying to get the attention of a store employee.
- DanielDisculpe, ¿tiene este vestido en talla mediana?Excuse me, do you have this dress in medium size?
- ElenaSí, déjeme revisar en el almacén.Yes, let me check in the warehouse.
- DanielMuchas gracias, Elena.Thank you very much, Elena.
- ElenaDe nada, Daniel. Vuelvo enseguida.You're welcome, Daniel. I'll be right back.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
