perdón
everyday
To say sorry in Argentina use perdón, or disculpá with a friend. Lo siento is used for a deeper apology or for sympathy.
Meaning: apology (phrase)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| perdón | everyday |
| disculpá | informal, vos |
| lo siento | serious |
Perdón is also used to get past someone or get attention, as in Perdón, ¿me dejás pasar? This is where English uses "excuse me".
Which one should you use?
Lo siento is heavier and fits a real mistake or condolences. For a small slip, perdón is enough.
How does it change in a sentence?
Disculpá and perdoná are vos commands. With usted it becomes disculpe. Perdón works in every situation.
Did you know?
- Uy is a typical Argentine interjection of surprise that often comes before an apology.
Examples in context
- Perdón, llegué tarde.Sorry, I am late.
- Disculpá, no te escuché.Sorry, I did not hear you.
- Lo siento mucho.I am very sorry.
Example conversation
Valeria bumps into a stranger named Ricardo at a bus stop in Buenos Aires.
- ValeriaUy, perdón. No te vi.Oh, sorry. I did not see you.
- RicardoNo hay problema.No problem.
- ValeriaDisculpá de nuevo.Sorry again.
