JAPAN IN
ONE MINUTE 
Have you ever haerd of this word “Sumimasen”?
Japanese people say “Sumimasen” more than 10 times a day.
It just means “sorry”, but it’s much more than that.
Tap to listen: “Sumimasen”
Yeah, “Sumimasen” is one of those words we use all the time in Japan.
It literally means ‘sorry’, but we also use it in other situations. One example is “excuse me”.
Eexcuse me :
In daily life, “Sumimasen” is used like “excuse me.”
For example, if you want to talk to someone on the street, call a waiter at a restaurant, or pass in front of someone,
you say “Sumimasen”.
It’s polite and softens your approach.
So if I bump into someone, I say “Sumimasen”?
But also if I want to ask where the bathroom is? So useful!
But I have a funny story about it.
I remember when I first came to Japan, I was so confused by this word.
One time, I helped an older woman when she dropped her wallet on the train.
I picked it up and handed it to her.
But then she said, “Sumimasen” to me!
Why did she say “Sumimasen” to you?
At first, I was confused. I thought why she is apologizing. She should be the one saying, “thank you”!’
But later, I learned that in Japan, people often say “Sumimasen” as a way of saying thank you,
especially when they feel they may have caused you any trouble, even if they’re helping you.
Thank you :
While “Arigato” is the standard word for thanks, Japanese people often say “Sumimasen” when someone helps them or does something kind, especially when it’s a stranger or someone they don’t know well.
In this case, it’s not an apology at all, just a respectful thank you.
It depends on the tone and the context.
That’s why it’s such a special word.
Mmm… “Sumimasen” is like a magic word then!
One word, so many meanings!
So, if you’re visiting Japan, don’t be afraid to use “Sumimasen“.
It’s polite, versatile, and always appreciated.
And if someone says it to you, don’t worry too much.
They might just be thanking you… or just trying to pass by!
Example Phrases
Excuse me
・” Sumimasen”, could you help me?
・“Sumimasen“, I’m just passing through.
Thank you
・“Sumimasen“, thank you so much. (When receiving help from a stranger)
Sorry
・Ah, “Sumimasen!” (After bumping into someone)