disculpe
“disculpe” means “excuse me” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
excuse me
Also: pardon me, sorry
📝 In Action
Disculpe, ¿me puede decir la hora?
A1Excuse me, can you tell me the time?
Disculpe, no entendí. ¿Puede repetirlo?
A2Pardon me, I didn't understand. Can you repeat that?
¡Ay, disculpe! Fue sin querer.
A1Oh, sorry! I didn't mean to.
excuse
Also: forgive
📝 In Action
Por favor, disculpe mi ignorancia sobre el tema.
B2Please, excuse my ignorance on the subject.
Espero que me disculpe por la respuesta tardía.
B1I hope you'll forgive me for the late reply.
Le pido que disculpe a mi hijo por su comportamiento.
B2I ask that you excuse my son for his behavior.
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: disculpe
Question 1 of 2
You accidentally bump into an elderly woman on the street. What is the most appropriate thing to say?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin verb 'disculpāre', which is formed from 'dis-' (a prefix meaning 'removal' or 'reversal') and 'culpāre' (to blame). So, it literally means 'to remove the blame'.
First recorded: Around the 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 'disculpe', 'perdón', and 'con permiso'?
They are all similar! Use 'disculpe' to get attention or for a minor bump. Use 'perdón' in the same way, but it can also be used for slightly more serious apologies. Use 'con permiso' specifically when you need to physically pass someone, like getting off a crowded bus.
When should I use 'disculpe' vs. 'disculpa'?
It's all about formality. Use 'disculpe' with 'usted' (strangers, elders, bosses) to be polite and formal. Use 'disculpa' with 'tú' (friends, family, people your age) for a more casual, informal tone.
Is 'disculpe' the same as 'lo siento'?
Not quite. 'Disculpe' is like 'excuse me' and is for small things. 'Lo siento' is like 'I'm sorry' and is used for more serious situations where you are expressing sympathy or regret, like if someone is sick or has lost something important.