🧩 Introduction
One of the first Japanese phrases many learners encounter is “Gomen nasai.” But did you know there are many more casual and natural ways to say “sorry” in Japanese?
In casual situations like talking with friends, classmates, or chatting on social media, it’s helpful to know how to apologize in a way that isn’t too formal. In this article, we’ll introduce 5 casual apology phrases commonly used in everyday Japanese. You’ll also learn when to use each one, with examples and tips on gestures — so you can start using them right away!
Why “Gomen
nasai” Isn’t Always Enough
🔹 Formal vs. Casual Apologies
“Gomen nasai” is polite and respectful, but in casual conversations, it can sound too stiff. When speaking with friends or family, more relaxed expressions like “gomen” or “suman” often sound more natural.
🔹 Why Casual Expressions Are Used More in Natural Conversation
In conversations between native Japanese speakers, word choice changes based on closeness and context. The closer the relationship, the more casual the language. That’s why learning casual “sorry” expressions helps you sound more like a native speaker.
5asual Ways to Say “Sorry” in Japanese
🔹 1. ごめん (Gomen) – The Standard Casual Apology
This is the most common casual way to say sorry.
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- Example: ごめん、今ちょっと忙しいんだ。
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- Translation: Sorry, I’m a bit busy right now.
🔹 2. ごめんね (Gomen ne) – A Softer and Friendlier Way
Adding “ne” makes it sound softer and more endearing.
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- Example: 昨日返信しなくてごめんね。
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- Translation: Sorry I didn’t reply yesterday.
🔹 3. すまん (Suman) – A Rougher, Male-Sounding Expression
This is rougher than “gomen” and often used by men.
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- Example: すまん、遅れた！
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- Translation: Sorry, I’m late!
🔹 4. すまんね / すまんかった – Colloquial and Regional
Sounds a bit old-fashioned or dialectal, used in places like Kansai or by older people.
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- Example: 昨日は手伝えなくて、すまんかったな。
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- Translation: Sorry I couldn’t help you yesterday.
🔹 5. わりぃ / わりかった (Warii / Warikatta) – Super Casual Between Friends
Extremely informal. Common among teenagers and close friends.
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- Example: あっ、わりぃ！ぶつかっちゃった！
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- Translation: Oh, sorry! I bumped into you!
How to Choose the Right Apology
🔹 Who Are You Talking To? (Friend / Teacher / Stranger)
The words you use change depending on the person. For teachers or superiors, it’s better to use “gomen nasai” or “moushiwake arimasen.” For close friends or coworkers, “gomen” or “suman” is more natural.
🔹 What’s the Situation? (Big Mistake vs. Small Accident)
If you forgot a meeting, “gomen ne” might be enough. But if you caused serious trouble, emphasize your apology with “hontou ni gomen nasai” (I’m truly sorry).
🔹 Tips to Sound Casual but Polite
Adding “ne” or phrases like “~datta ne” or “~shichatta ne” can make your tone softer.
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- Example: ごめんね、待たせちゃったね。
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- Translation: Sorry I kept you waiting.
Body Language Matters To
🔹 Gestures When Saying Sorry in Japanese
In Japan, it’s common to give a light bow when saying “sorry.” You can also put your hands together or tilt your head slightly to show you’re sorry.
🔹 Does Bowing Angle Change the Meaning?
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- Light bow (15°): Small apology
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- Standard bow (30°): Formal apology
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- Deep bow (45°+): Very serious or official apology
🔹 Be Mindful of Facial Expressions and Tone
Use a sincere expression and gentle tone to make your apology sound more genuine. A flat voice or face may come off as insincere.
Practice Time! Phrases for Everyday Situations
🔹 Situation 1: You Bumped Into Someone
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- ごめん、だいじょうぶ？
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- Translation: Oops, sorry! Are you okay?
🔹 Situation 2: You Were Late Meeting a Friend
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- ごめんごめん、電車が遅れちゃって！
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- Translation: Sorry, the train was late!
🔹 Situation 3: You Forgot to Reply on LINE
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- あ〜ごめんね、昨日すごくバタバタしててさ。
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- Translation: Sorry, I was really busy yesterday.
Common Mistakes Japanese Learners Make
🔹 Are You Always Saying “Sumimasen”?
“Sumimasen” is polite, but using it in every situation can sound stiff or unnatural. Knowing casual versions helps you sound more natural.
🔹 Apologizing Too Much Can Backfire
While apologizing is part of Japanese culture, saying “gomen” too often can make others feel uncomfortable. Use it when appropriate and sincere.
Wrap-Up: Use “Gomen” Naturally for More Natural Japanese
🔹 Summary Table of Casual Apology Phrases
| Phrase | Nuance | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| ごめん | Standard casual | Friends, coworkers |
| ごめんね | Softer and kinder | Close friends, small mistakes |
| すまん | Rough, masculine | Between guys, informal setting |
| すまんね | Colloquial and friendly | Older people, regional |
| わりぃ | Super casual | Young people, guy friends |
🔹 Try a Simple “Sorry” Today
Try using one of these casual “sorry” expressions today! It’s not just the words — your tone and expression also help convey how you feel. Combine them for the most natural Japanese communication.
