申し訳ありません

moushiwake arimasen
phraseIntermediate💡 I'm sorry

申し訳ありませんが、この商品は在庫がありません。

I'm sorry, but this product is out of stock.

formal

A polite and formal way to apologize for a mistake, inconvenience, or misunderstanding.

申し訳ありませんが、予約が取れませんでした。

I'm sorry, but I couldn't get a reservation.

申し訳ありませんが、このドアは閉まっています。

I'm sorry, but this door is closed.

💡

This phrase is commonly used in business and customer service settings to express sincere regret or apology.

Related Phrases

💡Pro Tip

Formality

Use this phrase in formal settings such as business meetings, customer service, or when speaking to someone of higher status.

Gold Rule

Politeness

This phrase is essential for maintaining polite and respectful communication in Japanese.

📖Word Origin

Derived from the verb '申し訳る' (moushiwakeru), meaning 'to apologize,' combined with the polite auxiliary verb 'ます' (masu).

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is more formal than 'すみません' and is often used in professional or formal contexts. It can be used to apologize for one's own actions or to express regret on behalf of someone else.

Word Breakdown

申し訳
apology
root
+
ありません
do not exist
suffix
和英辞典