disculpe
/diskulpe/from spelling rules
To say "excuse me to a waiter" in Spanish, use disculpe.
This phrase is a polite expression used to get the attention of a waiter.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is derived from the verb disculpar, which means "to excuse" or "to forgive".
Which one should you use?
While disculpe is the polite version, disculpa is the informal version used with people you are on a first-name basis with.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
disculpe is the polite imperative used to address a waiter or someone you do not know personally.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, the phrase Perdón is often used to mean excuse me when addressing a waiter. In Argentina, Disculpe is commonly used when speaking formally to a waiter. In Spain, the formal phrase Perdone can be used to address a waiter politely.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word disculpe is the formal singular imperative form of the verb disculpar.
How do you pronounce it?
/diskulpe/
Did you know?
- The verb disculpar is a cognate of the English word 'exculpate', meaning to clear from guilt or blame.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, instead of calling a waiter with a phrase, it is common to make eye contact and give a slight nod or a small raise of the hand to signal you need service.
- Using the informal disculpa with a waiter in a formal restaurant could be perceived as disrespectful or overly familiar, potentially changing the tone of your service.
Examples in context
- Perdone, ¿podría traerme la carta, por favor?Excuse me, could you bring me the menu, please?
- Disculpe, me falta una cuchara.Excuse me, I'm missing a spoon.
- Disculpe, ¿me puede traer la cuenta?Excuse me, can you bring me the bill?
- Disculpe, ¿tienen una mesa libre?Excuse me, do you have a free table?
- Disculpe, ¿qué nos recomienda?Excuse me, what do you recommend to us?
Example conversation
Alejandro is at a restaurant and wants to order.
- AlejandroDisculpe, ¿puede tomar mi pedido?Excuse me, can you take my order?
- ElenaSí, claro. ¿Qué desea comer?Yes, of course. What would you like to eat?
- AlejandroQuiero la ensalada, por favor.I want the salad, please.
- ElenaMuy bien, Alejandro. Enseguida se lo traigo.Very well, Alejandro. I will bring it to you right away.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
