How to Say "forgive me" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “forgive me” is “discúlpame” — use this when you need to get someone's attention or politely interrupt, similar to 'excuse me'. It can also be used for minor apologies..
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discúlpame
Imperative Verb PhraseA1Informal
Use this when you need to get someone's attention or politely interrupt, similar to 'excuse me'. It can also be used for minor apologies.
Examples
Discúlpame, ¿tienes la hora?
Excuse me, do you have the time?
perdóname
VerbA1Informal
This is a direct and personal request for forgiveness when you've done something wrong and want the other person to pardon you.
Examples
Perdóname por llegar tarde a tu fiesta.
Forgive me for arriving late to your party.
perdóneme
Verbal PhraseA1Formal
This is a more formal way to ask for forgiveness or to get someone's attention, especially when addressing someone you don't know well or in a more serious context.
Examples
Perdóneme, señor, ¿me podría ayudar?
Pardon me, sir, could you help me?
Informal vs. Formal Apologies
The main confusion for learners is choosing between 'perdóname' (informal) and 'perdóneme' (formal). Always use 'perdóname' with friends and family, and reserve 'perdóneme' for strangers or authority figures to avoid sounding rude or overly familiar.
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