ごめん
gomenAn informal way to say 'sorry' or 'I'm sorry' in Japanese, often used to apologize for minor mistakes or inconveniences.
ごめん、遅刻した。
Sorry, I'm late.
ごめん、間違えた。
Sorry, I made a mistake.
This is a casual expression and should not be used in formal settings. For more formal apologies, use 'すみません' (sumimasen).
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Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Casual vs. Formal Apologies
Use 'ごめん' in casual settings, but switch to 'すみません' in formal situations or with people you don't know well.
⚡Gold Rule
Appropriate Usage
Always use 'ごめん' in informal contexts. Avoid using it in professional or formal settings where 'すみません' is more appropriate.
📖Word Origin
Derived from the verb '許す' (yurusu), meaning 'to forgive'. The 'て' form of the verb is used to express an apology.
📝Usage Notes
This is a very common and casual way to apologize in Japanese. It is often used among friends, family, and in informal settings. For more formal situations, 'すみません' is more appropriate.