Japanese Word · Native
すみません
excuse me / I am sorry / thank you
Pronunciation: sumimasen
Meaning
A common polite expression used to apologize, get attention, or show gratitude for trouble taken.
Example
すみません、駅はどこですか。
Excuse me, where is the station?
Practice tips
- Practice すみません out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this Japanese word is for native-level learners.