How to Apologize in Italian

Ciao amici,

One of the best parts of teaching is having such polite students who want to correctly show manners while in Italy. After mastering "please" (per favore) and "thank you" (grazie) the next question is often, how to say “sorry” in Italian.

There is no one blanket apology phrase like “I’m sorry” in Italian, to apologize you have to consider the situation.

Scusami (if you know the person) or Mi scusi (if a stranger) is used in situations where we would say “excuse me”, such as if you accidentally step on someone’s foot or a cashier would say this to you if they forgot to give you the receipt.

Mi dispiace literally translates to “this displeases me” and is more heartfelt. You would use it in cases where you have to cancel plans with a friend or a waiter might say it if there is no seating available at a restaurant.

How do you want to be perceived in Italy? In just a few classes with Immerse Italy, you can avoid cultural faux pas and be equipped to express yourself in Italian. Check out my new Bookings page where you can easily schedule your first class!

In the meantime, buon Halloween!

Un abbraccio,

Lisa