How to say “I’m Sorry” in Spanish – 3 different ways to express sorry in the Spanish language

You’ve probably said “I’m sorry” a million times in your life, but how many of those times were in Spanish? Even if you are taking Spanish classes and learning new words, it can be hard to remember exactly when and how to use them all. That’s why we are here to help. 

It might seem like a small thing, but learning how to say “I’m sorry” in Spanish is one of the most important things you can do to make your time here feel even more authentic and immersive. After all, if you want to learn something new, you have to be able to express it! Keep reading for our tips on how to say “I’m sorry” in Spanish and expand your vocabulary that much further.

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What does “Lo siento” mean in Spanish

So what is Spanish for sorry? If you want to start off with something straightforward, “Lo siento” is an excellent place to start. Lo siento, pronounced “low see-en-toh,” is a phrase that is used when you are sorry for something that is either your fault or that you regret. The phrase and the sentiment behind it are essential parts of Spanish, so no matter how long you’ve been studying, it’s an excellent place to start. 

For example, lo siento Estoy retrasado (I am sorry I am late). 

Similarly, you can use “Lo siento” to express that you understand someone’s situation or point of view, even if you disagree. While the word “Lo siento” is one of the most basic Spanish words, it is also one of the most important ones to have in your vocabulary.

Don’t get confused when you see the word “siento” used in a context that translates to “feel.” Lo siento is Spanish for “I feel it.” So while it is used as the Spanish for I am sorry, it can also be used in the latter context. 

For example: “me siento mal” – I feel sick. 

“Lo siento tanto”/ “Estoy muy arrepentido”: I am very sorry

If you’ve done something wrong and want to apologize in a heartfelt and serious way, there are a few ways you can say, “I am very sorry.” While “Lo siento” can be said to anyone, anytime, even if you are not at fault for the situation, “Estoy muy arrepentido” or “lo siento tanto” can only be said to someone when you are genuinely sorry. Similarly, “Estoy muy arrepentido” can be used when you are genuinely sorry, even if it isn’t your fault. It is used more in a legal setting or when you have committed a crime.

“Lo siento mucho”: I am so sorry

There are a few ways to say, I am so sorry I’m Spanish. One of the most common ways is to say “Lo siento mucho.” Mucho is a Spanish adverb that means “very.” Lo siento mucho can be used to apologize for any situation, but it is best reserved for situations you genuinely feel sorry for. Another way to say “I am so sorry” is “Lo siento tanto.” Tanto is another Spanish adverb that means “so much.” It is similar to “lo siento mucho,” but it is used less frequently.

For example: lo siento mucho tu pérdida (i am so sorry for your loss) 

“Estoy muy arrepentido”: I am truly sorry

If you want to apologize in a frank and heartfelt way, you can use the phrase “Estoy muy arrepentido.” Estoy muy arrepentido can only be used when you are genuinely sorry and want to express that to someone. It is not as common as “lo siento mucho” or “lo siento tanto” because it is best reserved for regretful situations. Similarly, “Estoy arrepentido” can be used the same way “lo siento” is used, but it is far less common. The expression also loosely translates to “I am very sorry.” 

For example: “Estoy muy arrepentido de lo que hice” – I am truly sorry for what I did. 

Other ways to say “I’m sorry” in Spanish

If you want to expand your vocabulary a little bit, there are a few ways to say “I’m sorry” in Spanish that may be more interesting and sound more sophisticated. 

• If you want to say “I’m sorry” to someone who has done something to you and you want to apologize, you can say “Lo siento.” While “Lo siento” can be used when you have done something wrong, this is a more formal, official way of apologizing. 
• If you want to say “I’m sorry” very apologetically, you can say “Lo siento en el alma.” Lo siento en el alma (“low see-en-toh en el AHL-mah”) is a very formal and official way to apologize for something you have done.
• If you have done something wrong and want to express that you will never do it again, you can say, “Lo siento de corazón.” Lo siento de corazón (“low see-en-toh deh koh-rah-sion”) means you are indeed very sorry, and you will never do it again.
• If you are apologizing for something ordinary, you can use “perdón.” 
• Use “disculpe” for trivial things like missing a cue, not holding the door open, or dropping your fork at dinner. 
• If you want to say sorry for the inconvenience in Spanish, you can say “Lo siento por los inconvenientes ocasionados”. 

Conclusion

There are many ways to say “I’m sorry” in Spanish. The most important thing is to express how sorry you are for whatever you have done. Whether you are at fault or not, it is essential to show the people in your life that you care about their feelings and don’t want to hurt them. Once you know how to say “I’m sorry” in Spanish, it is easy to do so with everyone you meet.

To master this expression in Spanish, book lessons on italki today!