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How to Say "pardon" in Spanish

English → Spanish

perdón

nounA2formal
Use 'perdón' when you are officially asking for forgiveness, often in a serious or legal context, or when you want to express deep regret for an offense.

Examples

Te pido perdón si te ofendí.

I ask for your forgiveness if I offended you.

cómo

adverbA2informal
Use 'cómo' (with an accent) as a question when you didn't hear or understand what someone said and need them to repeat it.

Examples

- Pásame la cosa esa. - ¿Cómo?

- Pass me that thingamajig. - What? / Pardon?

perdonen

/pehr-DOH-nen//peɾˈdonen/

verbA2formal
Use 'perdonen' as a polite way to get the attention of a group of people or to excuse yourself when addressing multiple individuals.
A person standing with open palms and a gentle expression before a group of people who are smiling and reaching out to offer a hug.

Examples

Perdonen, ¿saben dónde está la estación?

Excuse me (everyone), do you know where the station is?

Perdonen la tardanza, había mucho tráfico.

Forgive the lateness (everyone), there was a lot of traffic.

Espero que me perdonen por lo que dije.

I hope they (or you all) forgive me for what I said.

Addressing a Group

Use 'perdonen' when you are speaking to two or more people. If you are only talking to one friend, use 'perdona' instead.

Two Roles for One Word

This form works as both a command ('Everyone, excuse me!') and in sentences about feelings ('I hope they forgive me').

Don't Mix Up 'Perdonan' and 'Perdonen'

Mistake: “Using 'perdonan' to ask for an excuse.”

Correction: Use 'perdonen'. 'Perdonan' (with an 'a') simply describes a fact, like 'They forgive easily.' 'Perdonen' (with an 'e') is the form used for requests and wishes.

Confusing 'perdón' and 'cómo'

Learners often confuse the noun 'perdón' (forgiveness) with the question 'cómo?' (what?). Remember, 'perdón' is used for seeking actual forgiveness, while 'cómo?' is a simple request to repeat something you didn't hear.

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