Translation guide
How to say 'pardon me' in Japanese, covering apologies, getting attention, asking for repetition, and polite interruptions.
Pardon me (apology/attention)
Most common and versatile.
Pardon me (formal entrance/exit)
Use when entering or leaving a room.
The speaker wants to apologize for a small error, bumping into someone, or entering a room.
The most common and versatile apology for minor offenses. Can also be used to get attention or express gratitude.
Literally 'I'm being rude.' Used when entering or leaving a room, or when interrupting someone. More formal than すみません.
Pardon me (upon entering a room).
The speaker wants to politely call out to a stranger or service person to ask a question or make a request.
The speaker didn't hear or understand and wants the other person to say it again.
Polite and clear. 'もう一度' means 'once more.'
The speaker needs to interrupt or excuse themselves from a conversation or meeting.
Used when leaving a room, ending a phone call, or interrupting a superior. Formal and polite.
The speaker needs to move past someone or reach across them and wants to be polite.
Literally 'Excuse me, I'm passing through.' Common in crowded places.
すみません is the most versatile and can be used for apologies, thanks, and getting attention. ごめんなさい is more personal and casual, often used among friends. 失礼します is formal and used for entering/leaving or interrupting. In many situations, すみません is the safest choice.
Pardon me for keeping you waiting.
Oh, pardon me.
A slightly more personal apology, often used among friends or in casual situations. Less formal than すみません.
Pardon me, I bumped into you a bit.
The standard way to get attention in shops, restaurants, or on the street. Equivalent to 'Excuse me.'
Pardon me, where is the station?
Pardon me, I'd like to order.
A slightly softer, more hesitant way to get attention. 'ちょっと' adds a nuance of 'just a moment.'
Pardon me, could you tell me the way?
Pardon me, could you say that again?
Very casual, like 'Huh?' Use only with close friends or family. Not polite.
Huh? What did you say?
Literally 'I couldn't hear you.' A polite way to indicate you didn't catch what was said.
Pardon me, I didn't hear you.
Pardon me, I'll be leaving first.
A softer way to interrupt or leave, combining apology and formality.
Pardon me, I'll excuse myself for a moment.
Pardon me, coming through.
Used when reaching for something near someone, like on a table. 'ちょっと' softens the intrusion.
Pardon me (reaching across).
Sorry, I forgot.
Pardon me (leaving).
English 'pardon me' can sound overly formal or old-fashioned in Japanese if translated literally. Stick to the natural phrases above. Using 'パードン' (paadon) is not common and may cause confusion.