A2Spanish

Thanking & Apologizing

These essential phrases will help you navigate social interactions smoothly, from showing gratitude to politely excusing yourself or apologizing in everyday situations.

Key Phrases

Voice
Expressing thanks · 3 ways to say it

¡Mil gracias!

casual

Thanks a million!

Use this enthusiastic thank you with friends or in very relaxed situations.

Muchas gracias por su ayuda.

neutral

Thank you very much for your help.

A standard, everyday way to thank someone for assisting you.

Es usted muy amable.

polite

You are very kind.

Very respectful; use with older people or when receiving excellent service.

Responding to thanks · 2 ways to say it

¡De nada!

casual

You're welcome!

The most universal, easy way to acknowledge a thank you.

Con mucho gusto.

polite

With pleasure.

Common in Latin America to warmly reply to thanks, especially in customer service.

Apologizing · 2 ways to say it

¡Uy, perdón!

casual

Oops, sorry!

Perfect for minor, accidental bumps or small, harmless mistakes.

Lo siento mucho, fue mi error.

neutral

I'm very sorry, it was my mistake.

Clear and direct; great for taking responsibility for a mix-up.

Excusing oneself (to pass)

Con permiso.

neutral

Excuse me (let me pass).

Essential for moving past someone in a crowded place or leaving a table.

Getting attention

Disculpe, tengo una pregunta.

polite

Excuse me, I have a question.

A polite way to interrupt a stranger or get a staff member's attention.

Practice Dialogue

Customer
Disculpe, tengo una pregunta.
Waiter
Dígame.
Customer
¿Van a cerrar pronto?
Waiter
Sí, en diez minutos.
Customer
Ah, lo siento mucho. No vi el cartel.
Waiter
No pasa nada. Puede pedir un café para llevar.
Customer
¡Mil gracias! Es usted muy amable.
Waiter
Con mucho gusto.

More Greetings & Socializing (A2)

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