Guide to the Meaning and Usage of “すみません”

Table of Contents

1. Usage of “すみません”
2. Apology
3. Calling Attention
4. Gratitude
5. Summary
6. Similar Articles
7. Comment

Q: Japanese people often use “すみません,” but in what situations is it appropriate to use it?

A: “すみません” can be broadly categorized into three uses: “apology,” “calling attention,” and “expressing gratitude.”
It is important to distinguish and understand these uses based on the situation.

Apology

It is used when the speaker has done something wrong to the other person.

[Examples]
(When accidentally stepping on someone’s foot)
「すみません」
“すみません” (Sorry)
　　　　　
(When the speaker realizes there is a mistake in the documents prepared by someone else)
A：作つくってくれた書類しょるい、ここが間違まちがっているよ。
B：あ、すみません。すぐ直なおします。
A: The document you made, there’s a mistake here.
B: Ah, sorry. I’ll fix it right away.

Calling Attention

It is used when the speaker calls the listener’s attention to something or makes a request.

[Examples]
(When wanting to place an order with a waiter at a restaurant)
「すみません」
“すみません” (Excuse me)

(When needing some help)
A：すみません、ちょっと手伝てつだってくれませんか。
B：はい、いいですよ。
A: Excuse me, could you help me for a moment?
B: Yes, of course.

Gratitude

In this case, it is used when the speaker is expressing gratitude for the actions of the other person that were unexpected.

“すみません” also has the meaning of apology, so it might seem strange that it can also be used to show gratitude.

The exact reason why it means “thank you” (＝ありがとうございます) is not clear, but it may be due to the Japanese mindset that “what the other person has done for me is not something to be taken for granted.” This leads to a feeling of being sorry for the time or effort the other person has given on their behalf.

Therefore, the expression conveys a feeling of apology as well as “thank you” at the same time.

[Examples]
(When helped by a stranger while lost)
A：どうしたんですか。
B：実じつは駅えきまでの道みちに迷まよってしまって。
A：一緒いっしょに行いきましょうか。
B：え、すみません！
A: What’s wrong?
B: Actually, I’m lost trying to find the station.
A: Should we go together?
B: Oh, thank you!

(When someone offers to carry something)
A：荷物にもつ、重おもそうですね。持もちましょうか。
B：どうもすみません。
A: Your bags look heavy. Should I help carry them?
B: Oh, thank you so much!

Summary

• “すみません” has three uses: “apology,” “calling attention,” and “expressing gratitude.”
• You need to judge how to use and understand it based on the situation and context.

Similar Articles

Comment for any questions!