What does it mean word for word?
The phrase すみません is a polite negative form of the verb sumu (to finish or settle), literally implying that the speaker's debt or the situation is not yet settled or resolved.
Which one should you use?
While すみません is polite and suitable for use with strangers or colleagues, it is less formal than moushiwake arimasen, which is reserved for serious apologies. Additionally, shitsurei shimasu is used specifically when entering someone's personal space, interrupting a conversation or as a formal greeting. For a casual and friendly way to say excuse me among friends or close acquaintances, use Gomen ne.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
In casual spoken Japanese, the 'mi' sound often blends into the 'i', resulting in the more relaxed, colloquial version すいません.
How does it change in a sentence?
To apologize for something that has already happened, use the past tense form すみませんでした.
How do you pronounce it?
sumimasen
Did you know?
- If someone says すみません to you to express thanks, the most natural response is often いいえ meaning 'no' or 'not at all', rather than a phrase meaning 'you are welcome'.
- In some regions of Japan, particularly in the Kansai area, people may use すんません as a more rhythmic and casual variation of すみません.
- The word すみません can be used as a 'social lubricant' to soften a request, acting as a verbal buffer to avoid sounding too demanding when asking for a favor.
Examples in context
- すみません、通りたいのですが。Sumimasen, tooritai no desu ga.Excuse me, I'd like to pass through.
- あ、すみません！A, sumimasen!Oh, excuse me!
Example conversation
Daito is trying to get Misaki's attention in a crowded room.
- 大翔 Hirotoすみません、美咲さん！Sumimasen, Misaki-san!Excuse me, Misaki!
- 美咲 Misakiあ、大翔さん。どうしたの？A, Daito-san. Dou shita no?Oh, Daito. What's up?
- 大翔 Hirotoこの資料を渡したかったんです。Kono shiryou o watashitakattan desu.I wanted to give you these documents.
- 美咲 Misakiありがとうございます。Arigatou gozaimasu.Thank you very much.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry すみません, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
