Perdón
everyday
In Peru the quick way to say "sorry" is Perdón, for example when you bump into someone. Disculpa is friendly, and Lo siento expresses real regret.
Meaning: apology (interjection)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| Perdón | everyday |
| Disculpa | friendly |
| Lo siento | regret |
Use Perdón or Disculpa for small things like arriving late. Use Lo siento mucho for a serious mistake or for sympathy.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Say Disculpe to a stranger, a teacher or an older person, because it uses the usted form.
Did you know?
- Disculpa comes from disculpar, to free someone from blame.
Examples in context
- Perdón, no fue mi intención.Sorry, I did not mean to.
- Disculpa por llegar tarde.Sorry for arriving late.
- Lo siento mucho.I am very sorry.
Example conversation
Pedro bumps into Señora Elena on a busy street in Lima.
- PedroPerdón, señora. ¿Se encuentra bien?Sorry, madam. Are you all right?
- ElenaSí, joven, no pasa nada.Yes, young man, it is nothing.
- PedroDisculpe de nuevo.Sorry again.
