A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Excuse me" in Spanish
Learn how to say "excuse me" in Spanish with 'Disculpe', the most versatile and polite way to get someone's attention or pass through a crowd.
Disculpe
dees-KOOL-pehneutral
Spanish TTS · 0:01
Use this phrase when you need to get a stranger's attention, such as flagging down a server or asking someone for directions on the street. It is also perfect for politely squeezing past people in a crowded market or public transit. If you accidentally bump into someone, this works as a quick, mild apology.
Alternatives
- Con permisobetter when you are physically trying to pass by someone or leave a room
- Perdónbetter for casual situations or when you make a minor mistake like bumping into someone
- Disculpabetter when speaking to someone your own age or younger in an informal setting
Ways to get it wrong
Using 'con permiso' to get attention
English speakers often confuse the two, but 'con permiso' is exclusively for asking permission to pass through, not for starting a conversation.
Pronouncing the 'u' like an English 'uh'
Make sure the 'u' sounds like the 'oo' in 'boot', resulting in 'dees-KOOL-peh' rather than 'dees-kuhl-peh'.
A small cultural note
In Latin America, saying 'con permiso' before entering someone's home or passing closely in front of them is deeply ingrained; using 'disculpe' in those specific moments can sound slightly unnatural.
Frequently asked
What is the difference between disculpe and perdon?
Use 'disculpe' primarily to get someone's attention or interrupt them politely before speaking. 'Perdón' is more of a direct apology for a minor mistake, like stepping on someone's foot.
How do you say excuse me to get past someone in Spanish?
The best phrase for this specific situation is 'con permiso', which literally means 'with permission'. It is the standard, polite way to ask people to move out of your path.
Is disculpe formal or informal Spanish?
It uses the formal 'usted' conjugation, making it the safest and most respectful choice for talking to strangers. If you want to be informal with a friend, you drop the 'e' and say 'disculpa' instead.
What are three ways to say "excuse me" in Spanish?
The most common ways to say "excuse me" in Spanish are "perdón," "disculpe," and "con permiso."
How do you politely say "excuse me"?
To be polite, you can use "disculpe" when trying to get someone's attention or apologize for a minor inconvenience. "Perdón" is also a polite option for apologizing.
How do I say "excuse me" when in Spain?
In Spain, "perdón" is very common for apologizing or getting attention. "Disculpe" is also widely used and understood.
What is the difference between "perdón" and "disculpe"?
"Perdón" is generally used to apologize for a mistake or to get someone's attention. "Disculpe" is often used to politely interrupt someone or ask for something.
