A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "I'm sorry" in Spanish
Express regret or apologize in Spanish with 'Lo siento.' Essential for politeness and acknowledging mistakes.
Lo siento
loh see-EN-tohneutral
Spanish TTS · 0:01
Use 'Lo siento' when you've made a mistake, bumped into someone, or want to express sympathy for someone's bad news. It's a general-purpose apology.
Alternatives
- PerdónUse for minor inconveniences, like asking someone to repeat themselves.
- DisculpeGood for getting someone's attention or for a polite, minor apology.
Ways to get it wrong
Confusing with 'sentir'
'Sentir' means 'to feel,' so 'Lo siento' literally means 'I feel it.'
Over-apologizing
While 'Lo siento' is common, avoid using it for every tiny thing to maintain its impact.
A small cultural note
Latin American cultures often value politeness and may use 'Lo siento' more readily than English speakers might apologize.
Frequently asked
When to use lo siento vs perdon
'Lo siento' is for expressing regret or sympathy, while 'perdón' is for minor inconveniences or asking for forgiveness.
Is lo siento formal or informal
'Lo siento' is considered neutral and can be used in both casual and formal situations.
How to say I am sorry in Spanish
The most common way to say 'I am sorry' in Spanish is 'Lo siento,' which literally translates to 'I feel it.'
What does "lo siento" mean?
"Lo siento" directly translates to "I feel it." It's the most common and versatile way to say "I'm sorry" in Spanish.
Is it lo siento or lamento?
Both "lo siento" and "lamento" mean "I'm sorry." "Lo siento" is generally more common for everyday apologies, while "lamento" can imply a deeper regret.
How can I apologize in Spanish?
You can apologize using "lo siento" for general apologies, "perdón" for minor offenses or to get attention, or "disculpa" which is similar to "excuse me" but can also be used as an apology.
