2007-03-01 14:40:45 · 5 answers · asked by Me 2 in Travel ➔ Asia Pacific ➔ Japan
It depends on your situation
Sumimasen = for casual social fopas. An all around all purpose word.
Shitsureishimasu = When being socially aggressive, like pushing through a crowd. More of a rushed sense.
Shitsurei = a friendly "excuse me".
Gomenasai = Also translated "I'm sorry"
Hope that helps.
2007-03-01 15:26:58 · answer #1 · answered by Looking for the truth... 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you are saying excuse me because you want to pass someone there is a gesture that you can use where you slightly arch your back and hold a hand out palm up.
I am not entirely sure on this gesture but I am sure that I will be corrected if this is wrong.
I read about it in a book from Borders which was about gestures and body language used in Japan. It was with the language books. It is well worth looking at if you are planning to go to Japan.
2007-03-02 16:17:09 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It depends on the situation and to whom you are talking. Generally "sumimasen" will do, but there are a variety of ways. I think at the end of the day though, you will be seen as trying to make an effort, so there shouldn't be any problems. The Japanese are a very understanding people.
2007-03-02 09:00:39 · answer #3 · answered by Pseudonym45 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
æ¸ã¿ã¾ãã - ãã¿ã¾ãã -Sumimasen (pronounced: soo-mee-mah-sehn) - this can be used as an "excuse me" when you need someone's attention OR "excuse me" if you accidentally bump into someone.
This is a safe word that is acceptable in most situations that a foreigner would need to say "Excuse me".
2007-03-01 23:11:14 · answer #4 · answered by Rabbityama 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
ãã¿ã¾ãã-sumimasen: excuse me.
2007-03-01 23:50:49 · answer #5 · answered by null 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋