申(もう)し訳(わけ)ありません

もうしわけありません
expression
I'm very sorry; I sincerely apologize
formalpolitecommunicationsociety
1. I'm very sorry; I sincerely apologize; there is no excuse
A formal and polite expression of apology, stronger than すみません. Literally means 'there is no excuse,' conveying deep regret and acknowledgment that one's actions were inexcusable.
大変(たいへん)申(もう)し訳(わけ)ありません。
I am terribly sorry.
お待(ま)たせして申(もう)し訳(わけ)ありません。
I'm sorry for keeping you waiting.
ご迷惑(めいわく)をおかけして誠(まこと)に申(もう)し訳(わけ)ありません。今後(こんご)このようなことがないよう十分(じゅうぶん)注意(ちゅうい)いたします。
I sincerely apologize for the inconvenience. I will take every care to ensure this does not happen again.

One of the most important formal apology expressions in Japanese. Literally means "there is no excuse" (申(もう)し訳(わけ) = excuse + ありません = does not exist). Used in business, customer service, and any situation requiring a sincere, polite apology.

Formality levels

Common intensifiers

Similar words

  • すみません: sorry/excuse me — lighter, everyday apology; also used to get attention
  • ごめんなさい: I'm sorry — more personal and informal; used between friends and family
  • 失礼(しつれい)しました: excuse me (for what I did) — used for minor social infractions

Related Words

Compare: すみません (sorry/excuse me)
Compare: ごめんなさい (I'm sorry)
Compare: 恐縮(きょうしゅく) (feeling grateful and apologetic)
general
Added 2026.4.2 11:51 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:02
21000/21409_moushiwakearimasen