A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Pardon me" in Italian
The essential Italian phrase for getting attention, apologizing, or asking someone to repeat themselves.
Mi scusi
mee SKOO-zeeneutral
Italian TTS · 0:01
Use this to politely get a waiter's attention, to say you're sorry if you bump into someone, or to ask someone to repeat what they said.
Alternatives
- ScusaUse this with friends or people you address with 'tu'.
- PermessoBest when you need to squeeze past someone or enter a private space.
Ways to get it wrong
Confusing 'scusi' and 'scusa'
'Scusi' is for 'Lei' (formal you), while 'scusa' is for 'tu' (informal you).
Pronouncing 'scusi' like 'skoo-zee'
The 's' sound is voiced, like the 'z' in 'zoo', not a sharp 's'.
A small cultural note
Italians use 'Mi scusi' very frequently, often even for minor inconveniences. Don't be shy about using it!
Frequently asked
when to use mi scusi vs scusa
Use 'Mi scusi' when you're speaking to someone you don't know, an elder, or in a formal setting (using 'Lei'). Use 'Scusa' with friends, family, or peers (using 'tu').
how to say pardon me in italian for getting attention
The most common way is 'Mi scusi'. You can also say 'Scusi!' with a slightly more insistent tone, or 'Permesso?' if you need to physically move past someone.
what does mi scusi mean literally
Literally, 'Mi scusi' means 'excuse me' or 'forgive me'. It's a polite request for the other person's indulgence.
How do you say "excuse me" or "pardon" in Italian?
The most common ways to say "excuse me" or "pardon" in Italian are "scusi" (formal) and "scusa" (informal).
Do Italians say scusi?
Yes, Italians frequently use "scusi" to politely get someone's attention, apologize, or ask someone to repeat themselves.
How do I say "excuse me politely"?
To say "excuse me" politely in Italian, you can use "scusi" when addressing someone you don't know well or someone older than you.
How do you say "pardon me" in Italian informally?
Informally, you would say "scusa" to friends, family, or people your own age.
