Unlocking Spanish Manners: 12 Fun Ways to Say “Excuse Me” in Spanish

Unlocking Spanish Manners: 12 Fun Ways to Say “Excuse Me” in Spanish

Attention: Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you wanted to politely get someone’s attention, but didn’t know how to say “excuse me” in Spanish? Look no further! We’re about to take you on a fun journey of Spanish manners that will not only teach you the words you need but will also help you understand when to use them. Let’s dive into these essential expressions!


excuse me in spanish

Problem: Why Knowing How to Say “Excuse Me” in Spanish Matters

Imagine you’re traveling in a Spanish-speaking country, walking through a busy market, or maybe you’re about to ask someone for directions. How do you get their attention? Do you just say “Excuse me”? Not quite. In Spanish, context is key. Different situations call for different phrases. We’re going to break down these key phrases, so you’ll be prepared no matter where you are!

In many cases, simply saying “excuse me” can show politeness and avoid awkward moments. But if you choose the wrong phrase, you might confuse people or sound impolite. Understanding the subtle differences between the many ways to say “excuse me” in Spanish is essential, and it can even help you make new friends!

Solution: The 12 Fun Ways to Say “Excuse Me” in Spanish

Let’s go over some of the most common and practical ways to say “excuse me” in Spanish. Here are 12 phrases you should have in your back pocket for every situation:

1. Perdón

“Perdón” is your go-to word when you bump into someone or step on someone’s toes. It’s also perfect if you need to get past someone on a crowded street. Think of it like a quick apology mixed with “excuse me.” It’s a good idea to use “perdón” when you accidentally invade someone’s personal space, and a simple “perdón” can smooth over an awkward moment in any busy area, like a market, subway, or even a crowded elevator.

2. Con permiso

When you’re trying to pass by someone in a crowded space, “Con permiso” is the polite way to say “excuse me.” It’s like saying, “With your permission, I’ll just squeeze through.” Use it in spaces like narrow aisles or busy public transportation, where you have to get past a group of people. You might even hear this from street vendors who are trying to move through markets.

3. Disculpa / Disculpe

These are used when you need someone’s attention. “Disculpa” is informal (perfect for talking to someone your age), while “Disculpe” is formal, ideal for talking to strangers or elders. You can think of “disculpa” and “disculpe” as polite ways to interrupt someone or ask for help. If you need to ask a stranger on the street for directions, “disculpe” would be the safest choice. Use “disculpa” when talking to someone your age or a friend.

4. Lo siento

Although “Lo siento” means “I’m sorry,” it can also be used to express regret or apologize in situations where you may have caused inconvenience. For example, if you accidentally cause a minor inconvenience, like making someone wait while you complete a task, “lo siento” shows empathy and politeness.

5. ¡Oye! / ¡Oiga!

“Oye” (informal) and “Oiga” (formal) are direct ways to get someone’s attention. Use them when you need to address someone, like asking for directions. These words work best when you want to call out to someone from a short distance. It’s a quick and efficient way to signal to a person in public without being too intrusive.

6. ¿Me permites?

This phrase translates to “Will you allow me?” and is a polite way to ask for permission to do something. It’s commonly used when you need to interrupt or pass by. Imagine being at a formal event where you need to step out of a row of chairs—“¿Me permites?” works perfectly in this scenario, showing both respect and courtesy.

7. Perdóneme

If you want to go a step further in politeness, you can use “Perdóneme,” which is a more formal and respectful way of saying “excuse me.” You’ll use this in situations with elders or people you respect. It can also be a useful phrase when you need to make a sincere apology, for instance, if you accidentally inconvenience someone of higher authority.

8. Disculpa que te moleste

This is a more elaborate way of apologizing for the inconvenience. It means, “Sorry to bother you,” and is perfect when you need to ask for help in a polite way. This phrase can be used when you need someone’s time or attention in a professional setting or when addressing a stranger politely.

9. Un momento, por favor

If you need to ask for someone’s time, saying “Un momento, por favor” is a polite way to ask for a brief pause in the conversation. It’s commonly used when you need a short delay to gather your thoughts or when you need someone to wait a moment while you finish something.

10. Permítame

This is the formal way of asking for permission to interrupt or pass. It’s more respectful and commonly used in formal settings. For example, if you need to walk in front of someone or interrupt them during a presentation, “permítame” will convey that you’re being considerate and polite.

11. Mil disculpas

For more serious situations, when you want to offer a deep apology, “Mil disculpas” (A thousand apologies) shows that you are sincerely sorry. It’s typically used when you feel deeply sorry about something, and it adds an emotional touch to your apology.

12. Perdóname la vida

This phrase is often used jokingly. It literally means “forgive me for living,” but it’s a humorous way to say “excuse me” when you’re over-apologizing for something small. You might use this phrase when you’re being overly dramatic about a minor mistake, and it’s sure to get a smile.

Action: Now It’s Your Turn to Practice!

Next time you’re in a Spanish-speaking environment, practice using these phrases! Need more tips or a language partner to practice with? Check out our conversation programs here! Now that you know the essentials of saying “excuse me” in Spanish, why not impress the locals with your new skills?

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