How to Say “Excuse Me” in Spanish: A Comprehensive Guide

Knowing how to say “excuse me” is crucial in any language, and Spanish is no exception. It’s a phrase you’ll use frequently in various social situations, from navigating crowded streets to interrupting a conversation politely. Mastering the different ways to express “excuse me” in Spanish will significantly enhance your communication skills and help you navigate Spanish-speaking environments with grace and confidence. This comprehensive guide will explore the nuances of this essential phrase, providing you with the knowledge and practice you need to use it effectively. This guide is perfect for Spanish learners of all levels, from beginners to advanced speakers seeking to refine their etiquette.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Definition of “Excuse Me” in Spanish
• Structural Breakdown
• Types and Categories of “Excuse Me”
  • Perdón
  • Con Permiso
  • Disculpe / Disculpa
  • Lo Siento
• Examples
  • Perdón Examples
  • Con Permiso Examples
  • Disculpe / Disculpa Examples
  • Lo Siento Examples
• Usage Rules
• Common Mistakes
• Practice Exercises
• Advanced Topics
• FAQ
• Conclusion

Introduction

Learning polite phrases is one of the first steps in mastering any language. Understanding how to say “excuse me” in Spanish is more than just memorizing a translation; it involves grasping the cultural context and choosing the appropriate phrase for the situation. Whether you need to get someone’s attention, ask for passage, or apologize for a minor inconvenience, knowing the right expression will make your interactions smoother and more respectful. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the various ways to say “excuse me” in Spanish, along with practical examples and usage guidelines to help you confidently navigate any social setting.

Definition of “Excuse Me” in Spanish

The English phrase “excuse me” serves multiple purposes, from politely interrupting someone to seeking forgiveness for a minor offense. In Spanish, these different functions are covered by a range of expressions, each with its own nuance and appropriate context. There isn’t a single, direct translation that works in every situation. Instead, you must choose the expression that best fits the specific scenario. The main translations include perdón, con permiso, disculpe/disculpa, and lo siento. Each of these phrases carries a slightly different meaning and is used in different contexts.

Structural Breakdown

Understanding the structure of these phrases helps in their proper usage. Here’s a breakdown of the common expressions:

• Perdón: This literally translates to “pardon” or “forgiveness.” It’s a simple interjection, often used to ask someone to repeat themselves or to apologize for a minor infraction.
• Con permiso: This phrase means “with permission.” It’s used to ask for passage or to politely interrupt someone. The structure is straightforward: con (with) + permiso (permission).
• Disculpe / Disculpa: These are forms of the verb disculpar, meaning “to excuse.” Disculpe is the formal “you” (usted) form, while disculpa is the informal “you” (tú) form. The choice depends on your relationship with the person you’re addressing.
• Lo siento: This phrase translates to “I’m sorry.” While not a direct translation of “excuse me,” it can be used to apologize for a mistake or inconvenience, similar to using “excuse me” as an apology. Lo is a direct object pronoun, and siento is the first-person singular present tense of the verb sentir (to feel).

Types and Categories of “Excuse Me”

As mentioned before, there are several ways to say “excuse me” in Spanish, each suited for different scenarios. Let’s explore each of these in detail.

Perdón

Perdón is a versatile word that can be used in several situations. It’s often used to ask someone to repeat themselves if you didn’t hear or understand them. It can also be a mild apology for bumping into someone or causing a minor inconvenience.

Con Permiso

Con permiso is used when you need to pass through a crowded space or politely interrupt a conversation. It literally means “with your permission” and is a polite way of requesting access or attention.

Disculpe / Disculpa

Disculpe and disculpa both come from the verb disculpar, which means “to excuse.” Disculpe is the formal form, used when addressing someone you don’t know well or someone in a position of authority. Disculpa is the informal form, used with friends, family, and people you’re on familiar terms with.

Lo Siento

Lo siento means “I’m sorry.” While not a direct translation of “excuse me,” it’s used to express regret for something you’ve done or said. It can also be used in situations where you want to apologize for a minor inconvenience, similar to using “excuse me” as an apology in English.

Examples

To solidify your understanding, let’s look at various examples of how to use each phrase in context. Tables are provided below to help illustrate the differences and proper usage.

Perdón Examples

The following table provides examples of how to use “Perdón” in various situations. These examples cover scenarios such as asking someone to repeat themselves, apologizing for a minor inconvenience, or simply expressing mild regret.

Spanish	English Translation	Context
Perdón, no te oí.	Excuse me, I didn’t hear you.	Asking someone to repeat themselves.
Perdón, ¿me puedes repetir?	Excuse me, can you repeat that?	Asking for clarification.
Perdón, te pisé el pie.	Excuse me, I stepped on your foot.	Apologizing for a minor accident.
Perdón, ¿sabes qué hora es?	Excuse me, do you know what time it is?	Getting someone’s attention to ask a question.
Perdón, ¿dónde está el baño?	Excuse me, where is the bathroom?	Asking for directions.
Perdón, ¿puedes hablar más alto?	Excuse me, can you speak louder?	Asking someone to increase their volume.
Perdón, ¿este asiento está libre?	Excuse me, is this seat free?	Checking if a seat is available.
Perdón, no entiendo.	Excuse me, I don’t understand.	Indicating that you need clarification.
Perdón, llegué tarde.	Excuse me, I’m late.	Apologizing for being tardy.
Perdón, ¿me dejas pasar?	Excuse me, can you let me pass?	Asking someone to move out of your way.
Perdón, ¿tienes fuego?	Excuse me, do you have a light?	Asking for a light.
Perdón, ¿me puedes ayudar?	Excuse me, can you help me?	Asking for assistance.
Perdón, no lo sabía.	Excuse me, I didn’t know that.	Expressing ignorance of a fact.
Perdón, ¿cuánto cuesta?	Excuse me, how much does it cost?	Asking about the price of something.
Perdón, ¿a qué hora abre?	Excuse me, what time does it open?	Asking about opening hours.
Perdón, ¿tienes cambio?	Excuse me, do you have change?	Asking for change.
Perdón, ¿tienes hora?	Excuse me, do you have the time?	Asking for the time.
Perdón, ¿me puedes sacar una foto?	Excuse me, can you take a picture of me?	Asking someone to take a photo.
Perdón, ¿está ocupado?	Excuse me, is this occupied?	Checking if something is in use.
Perdón, ¿me puedes dar un consejo?	Excuse me, can you give me some advice?	Asking for advice.
Perdón, ¿me podrías decir cómo llegar a…?	Excuse me, could you tell me how to get to…?	Asking for directions to a specific place.
Perdón, creo que te equivocaste.	Excuse me, I think you made a mistake.	Pointing out a mistake politely.
Perdón, ¿puedes bajar la voz?	Excuse me, can you lower your voice?	Asking someone to speak more quietly.
Perdón, no estoy de acuerdo.	Excuse me, I disagree.	Politely expressing disagreement.

Con Permiso Examples

The table below illustrates the use of “Con permiso” in various situations where you need to ask for passage or politely interrupt. These examples include scenarios such as navigating a crowded space, excusing yourself from a table, or briefly interrupting a conversation.

Spanish	English Translation	Context
Con permiso, voy a pasar.	Excuse me, I’m going to pass through.	Moving through a crowded space.
Con permiso, me retiro de la mesa.	Excuse me, I’m excusing myself from the table.	Leaving the table during a meal.
Con permiso, ¿puedo interrumpir un momento?	Excuse me, can I interrupt for a moment?	Politely interrupting a conversation.
Con permiso, necesito llegar al otro lado.	Excuse me, I need to get to the other side.	Asking people to make way.
Con permiso, ¿puedo ver?	Excuse me, can I see?	Asking to get a better view.
Con permiso, ¿me deja sentarme aquí?	Excuse me, will you let me sit here?	Asking to sit in a particular spot.
Con permiso, llego tarde.	Excuse me, I’m late.	Trying to get through a crowd quickly.
Con permiso, ¿puedo tomar esto?	Excuse me, can I take this?	Asking for permission to take something.
Con permiso, solo un momento.	Excuse me, just a moment.	Briefly interrupting someone’s task.
Con permiso, estoy buscando algo.	Excuse me, I’m looking for something.	Navigating around while searching for something.
Con permiso, necesito hablar con él.	Excuse me, I need to speak with him.	Interrupting to talk to someone.
Con permiso, ¿puedo preguntar algo?	Excuse me, can I ask something?	Seeking permission to ask a question.
Con permiso, voy al baño.	Excuse me, I’m going to the bathroom.	Excusing oneself to go to the restroom.
Con permiso, voy a servirme.	Excuse me, I’m going to serve myself.	Getting up to serve food or drinks.
Con permiso, necesito esta silla.	Excuse me, I need this chair.	Asking to take a chair.
Con permiso, ¿puedo usar tu teléfono?	Excuse me, can I use your phone?	Asking to borrow a phone.
Con permiso, ¿puedo ver el menú?	Excuse me, can I see the menu?	Asking to see the menu in a restaurant.
Con permiso, estoy trabajando aquí.	Excuse me, I’m working here.	Indicating you need space to work.
Con permiso, ¿me podrías ayudar?	Excuse me, could you help me?	Asking for assistance.
Con permiso, necesito un poco de espacio.	Excuse me, I need some space.	Requesting personal space.
Con permiso, ¿puedo pasar por aquí?	Excuse me, can I pass through here?	Asking to pass through a narrow space.
Con permiso, ¿puedo unirme?	Excuse me, can I join?	Asking to join a group or activity.
Con permiso, solo quería decir…	Excuse me, I just wanted to say…	Interrupting to make a brief comment.

Disculpe / Disculpa Examples

The following table demonstrates the use of both “Disculpe” (formal) and “Disculpa” (informal) in various scenarios. These examples include apologizing for inconveniences, asking for information, and getting someone’s attention politely.

Spanish (Formal)	Spanish (Informal)	English Translation	Context
Disculpe, ¿sabe dónde está la estación de tren?	Disculpa, ¿sabes dónde está la estación de tren?	Excuse me, do you know where the train station is?	Asking for directions (formal/informal).
Disculpe, le molesté sin querer.	Disculpa, te molesté sin querer.	Excuse me, I bothered you unintentionally.	Apologizing for unintentionally bothering someone (formal/informal).
Disculpe, ¿me puede decir la hora?	Disculpa, ¿me puedes decir la hora?	Excuse me, can you tell me the time?	Asking for the time (formal/informal).
Disculpe, no quería interrumpir.	Disculpa, no quería interrumpir.	Excuse me, I didn’t mean to interrupt.	Apologizing for an interruption (formal/informal).
Disculpe, ¿este es el autobús para Madrid?	Disculpa, ¿este es el autobús para Madrid?	Excuse me, is this the bus to Madrid?	Confirming the correct bus (formal/informal).
Disculpe, ¿podría repetir eso, por favor?	Disculpa, ¿podrías repetir eso, por favor?	Excuse me, could you repeat that, please?	Asking someone to repeat something (formal/informal).
Disculpe, ¿hay alguien sentado aquí?	Disculpa, ¿hay alguien sentado aquí?	Excuse me, is someone sitting here?	Checking if a seat is occupied (formal/informal).
Disculpe, creo que se le cayó esto.	Disculpa, creo que se te cayó esto.	Excuse me, I think you dropped this.	Returning a dropped item (formal/informal).
Disculpe, ¿me permite pasar?	Disculpa, ¿me permites pasar?	Excuse me, may I pass?	Asking for passage (formal/informal).
Disculpe, ¿me puede ayudar con esto?	Disculpa, ¿me puedes ayudar con esto?	Excuse me, can you help me with this?	Asking for help (formal/informal).
Disculpe, ¿cómo llego al museo?	Disculpa, ¿cómo llego al museo?	Excuse me, how do I get to the museum?	Asking for directions (formal/informal).
Disculpe, ¿cuánto cuesta esto?	Disculpa, ¿cuánto cuesta esto?	Excuse me, how much does this cost?	Asking the price (formal/informal).
Disculpe, ¿a qué hora abren?	Disculpa, ¿a qué hora abren?	Excuse me, what time do you open?	Asking the opening time (formal/informal).
Disculpe, ¿tienen mesas libres?	Disculpa, ¿tienen mesas libres?	Excuse me, do you have any free tables?	Asking about table availability (formal/informal).
Disculpe, ¿aceptan tarjetas de crédito?	Disculpa, ¿aceptan tarjetas de crédito?	Excuse me, do you accept credit cards?	Asking about payment methods (formal/informal).
Disculpe, ¿dónde está el baño?	Disculpa, ¿dónde está el baño?	Excuse me, where is the bathroom?	Asking for the location of the restroom (formal/informal).
Disculpe, ¿me puede dar un vaso de agua?	Disculpa, ¿me puedes dar un vaso de agua?	Excuse me, can you give me a glass of water?	Asking for a glass of water (formal/informal).
Disculpe, ¿me puede traer la cuenta?	Disculpa, ¿me puedes traer la cuenta?	Excuse me, can you bring me the bill?	Asking for the bill (formal/informal).
Disculpe, ¿me puede cambiar este billete?	Disculpa, ¿me puedes cambiar este billete?	Excuse me, can you change this bill for me?	Asking for change (formal/informal).
Disculpe, ¿me puede dar un recibo?	Disculpa, ¿me puedes dar un recibo?	Excuse me, can you give me a receipt?	Asking for a receipt (formal/informal).
Disculpe, ¿me puede repetir su nombre?	Disculpa, ¿me puedes repetir tu nombre?	Excuse me, can you repeat your name?	Asking someone to repeat their name (formal/informal).
Disculpe, ¿necesita ayuda?	Disculpa, ¿necesitas ayuda?	Excuse me, do you need help?	Offering help (formal/informal).
Disculpe, ¿está ocupado?	Disculpa, ¿estás ocupado?	Excuse me, are you busy?	Checking if someone is occupied (formal/informal).
Disculpe, ¿puedo hacer una pregunta?	Disculpa, ¿puedo hacer una pregunta?	Excuse me, can I ask a question?	Asking to ask a question (formal/informal).

Lo Siento Examples

The table below provides examples of how to use “Lo siento” in scenarios where you are expressing regret or apologizing for something. These examples include apologizing for mistakes, expressing sympathy, and acknowledging an inconvenience caused.

Spanish	English Translation	Context
Lo siento, llegué tarde.	I’m sorry, I’m late.	Apologizing for being late.
Lo siento, no te entendí.	I’m sorry, I didn’t understand you.	Apologizing for not understanding.
Lo siento, me equivoqué.	I’m sorry, I was wrong.	Admitting a mistake.
Lo siento mucho por tu pérdida.	I’m very sorry for your loss.	Expressing condolences.
Lo siento, no puedo ayudarte.	I’m sorry, I can’t help you.	Expressing regret for not being able to assist.
Lo siento, no lo sabía.	I’m sorry, I didn’t know that.	Apologizing for ignorance of a fact.
Lo siento, te hice esperar.	I’m sorry, I made you wait.	Apologizing for making someone wait.
Lo siento, no puedo ir.	I’m sorry, I can’t go.	Expressing regret for not being able to attend.
Lo siento, rompí tu vaso.	I’m sorry, I broke your glass.	Apologizing for breaking something.
Lo siento, te interrumpí.	I’m sorry, I interrupted you.	Apologizing for an interruption.
Lo siento, no tengo dinero.	I’m sorry, I don’t have any money.	Apologizing for not having money.
Lo siento, no estoy de acuerdo.	I’m sorry, I don’t agree.	Politely disagreeing.
Lo siento, está ocupado.	I’m sorry, it’s occupied.	Indicating that something is not available.
Lo siento, no funciona.	I’m sorry, it doesn’t work.	Expressing regret that something is not functional.
Lo siento, no hablo español muy bien.	I’m sorry, I don’t speak Spanish very well.	Apologizing for language limitations.
Lo siento, me olvidé.	I’m sorry, I forgot.	Apologizing for forgetting.
Lo siento, no lo hice a propósito.	I’m sorry, I didn’t do it on purpose.	Apologizing and explaining lack of intent.
Lo siento, ¿te lastimé?	I’m sorry, did I hurt you?	Expressing concern for someone’s well-being.
Lo siento, no tengo idea.	I’m sorry, I have no idea.	Expressing lack of knowledge.
Lo siento, no puedo ahora.	I’m sorry, I can’t now.	Declining a request due to current unavailability.
Lo siento, no tengo tiempo.	I’m sorry, I don’t have time.	Declining a request due to lack of time.
Lo siento, no lo encuentro.	I’m sorry, I can’t find it.	Expressing inability to locate something.
Lo siento, está cerrado.	I’m sorry, it’s closed.	Indicating that a place is closed.
Lo siento, ya se acabó.	I’m sorry, it’s already finished.	Indicating that something is out of stock or over.

Usage Rules

Here’s a summary of the usage rules for each phrase:

• Perdón: Use this for minor inconveniences, asking someone to repeat themselves, or getting someone’s attention briefly.
• Con permiso: Use this when you need to pass through a space, interrupt a conversation politely, or excuse yourself from a table.
• Disculpe / Disculpa: Use disculpe for formal situations and disculpa for informal situations when apologizing for something or asking for help.
• Lo siento: Use this to express regret or apologize for a mistake you’ve made.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is using lo siento when you should use perdón or disculpe. Lo siento is a stronger apology, so it’s not appropriate for minor inconveniences. Another mistake is using the formal disculpe in informal situations, or vice-versa. Always consider your relationship with the person you’re addressing.

Here are some examples of common mistakes and their corrections:

Incorrect	Correct	Explanation
Lo siento, ¿me puedes repetir?	Perdón, ¿me puedes repetir?	Lo siento is too strong for asking someone to repeat themselves.
Disculpa, señor.	Disculpe, señor.	Disculpa is informal, while señor implies formality.
Perdón, rompí tu vaso (to a close friend).	Lo siento, rompí tu vaso.	Breaking a glass warrants a stronger apology (lo siento).
Con permiso, ¿qué hora es?	Perdón, ¿qué hora es?	“Con permiso” is for asking passage, not for asking the time.

Practice Exercises

Test your knowledge with these practice exercises. Choose the appropriate way to say “excuse me” in each scenario.

Question	Answer
You bump into someone on the street.	Perdón.
You need to pass through a crowded room.	Con permiso.
You want to ask a stranger for directions.	Disculpe, ¿sabe dónde está…?
You accidentally spill coffee on a friend.	Lo siento, te manché.
You didn’t hear what someone said and want them to repeat it.	Perdón, ¿puedes repetir?
You need to interrupt a meeting briefly.	Con permiso, un momento.
You step on someone’s foot on the bus.	Perdón, te pisé.
You want to ask a waiter for the bill (formal).	Disculpe, ¿me puede traer la cuenta?
You want to ask a friend for a pen.	Disculpa, ¿me prestas una pluma?
You realize you took someone else’s seat.	Lo siento, me equivoqué de asiento.

Question	Possible Answers (Choose the best one)
You accidentally bumped into someone at a concert.	a) Con permiso b) Perdón c) Lo siento
You want to politely interrupt a speaker at a conference to ask a question.	a) Disculpe b) Perdón c) Con permiso
You realize you’ve spilled wine on your date’s shirt.	a) Perdón b) Lo siento c) Con permiso
You need to squeeze past someone on a crowded train.	a) Disculpe b) Con permiso c) Perdón
You didn’t hear what your professor said in class.	a) Lo siento b) Con permiso c) Perdón
You accidentally stepped on someone’s toes in a crowded elevator.	a) Disculpe b) Perdón c) Lo siento
You need to get past a group of people blocking the hallway.	a) Lo siento b) Con permiso c) Disculpe
You realize you’ve been talking too loudly on the phone in a public place.	a) Con permiso b) Lo siento c) Perdón
You need to briefly interrupt a conversation between colleagues to ask a quick question.	a) Perdón b) Disculpe c) Con permiso
You realize you’ve accidentally taken someone else’s coffee cup.	a) Con permiso b) Lo siento c) Perdón

Answers:

1. b) Perdón
2. a) Disculpe
3. b) Lo siento
4. b) Con permiso
5. c) Perdón
6. b) Perdón
7. b) Con permiso
8. b) Lo siento
9. c) Con permiso
10. b) Lo siento

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, consider these nuances:

• Regional variations: Some regions may prefer one phrase over another.
• Adding emphasis: You can add words like mucho (much) to lo siento to express greater remorse (Lo siento mucho).
• Using indirect questions: Instead of directly saying “excuse me,” you can use indirect questions to soften the request (e.g., “¿Sería tan amable de…?” – Would you be so kind as to…?).

FAQ

1. Is there a single, perfect translation for “excuse me” in Spanish?

   No, there isn’t. The best translation depends on the context. Perdón, con permiso, disculpe/disculpa, and lo siento each have their own nuances and are used in different situations.

2. When should I use disculpe versus disculpa?

   Use
   disculpe when addressing someone formally (using usted) and disculpa when addressing someone informally (using tú). Consider age, social status, and your relationship with the person.

3. Can I use perdón in all situations?

   While perdón is versatile, it’s best suited for minor situations. For more significant apologies, lo siento or a more elaborate expression of remorse would be more appropriate.

4. Is it rude to interrupt someone in Spanish-speaking cultures?

   As in any culture, interrupting is generally considered impolite. However, using phrases like con permiso or disculpe can soften the interruption and show respect.

5. How can I remember which phrase to use in which situation?

   Practice and exposure are key. Pay attention to how native speakers use these phrases in different contexts. Try to use them in your own conversations and get feedback from native speakers.

6. Are there other ways to apologize or ask for forgiveness in Spanish?

   Yes, there are many. Some examples include:

   • Te pido disculpas (I apologize to you)
   • Discúlpame (Excuse me – informal, direct command)
   • Le pido perdón (I ask for your forgiveness – formal)
   • Ojalá pudieras perdonarme (I wish you could forgive me)
7. How do native Spanish speakers react when a non-native speaker uses the wrong phrase?

   Most native speakers are understanding and appreciate the effort to communicate in their language. A small mistake in choosing the right phrase is unlikely to cause offense, especially if you are polite and show genuine remorse or respect.

8. Can the tone of voice affect the meaning of these phrases?

   Yes, absolutely. Your tone of voice and body language can significantly impact how your words are perceived. Sincerity and politeness are key, regardless of the specific phrase you use.

9. Is there a difference in usage between Spanish spoken in Spain and Spanish spoken in Latin America?

   Yes, there can be regional variations in usage and preference. For example, some phrases might be more common in certain Latin American countries than in Spain, or vice versa. However, the core meanings remain the same, so understanding the basics will allow you to adapt to regional differences.

10. How can I improve my understanding of these nuances?

    Immerse yourself in the language as much as possible. Watch Spanish-language movies and TV shows, listen to Spanish-language music and podcasts, and try to engage in conversations with native speakers. Pay attention to the context in which these phrases are used and how people react to them.

Conclusion

Mastering the different ways to say “excuse me” in Spanish is an essential step towards effective communication and cultural understanding. By understanding the nuances of perdón, con permiso, disculpe/disculpa, and lo siento, you can navigate social situations with confidence and politeness. Remember to consider the context, your relationship with the person you’re addressing, and the level of formality required. With practice and attention to detail, you’ll be well-equipped to use these phrases appropriately and enhance your Spanish communication skills. Keep practicing, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes – they are a natural part of the learning process. ¡Buena suerte!