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lo siento means I'm sorry — a common term in Essential Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: August 17, 2025

📘 Essential Spanish

lo siento

expression • /[lo SYEN-toh]/

I'm sorry

Example:

Lo siento por llegar tarde.

I'm sorry for arriving late.

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🧠 What does lo siento mean?

Lo siento is a common Spanish expression meaning "I'm sorry" or "I feel it." It's used to express apology or regret for something you've done or something that's happened. It's a versatile phrase suitable for a wide range of situations, from minor inconveniences to more serious offenses.

📚 Extra examples

  • Lo siento, llego tarde.
    I'm sorry, I'm late.
  • Lo siento mucho por tu pérdida.
    I'm so sorry for your loss.
  • ¡Lo siento! No te vi.
    Sorry! I didn't see you.
  • Lo siento, no quise hacerte daño.
    I'm sorry, I didn't mean to hurt you.
  • Lo siento, me equivoqué.
    I'm sorry, I made a mistake.

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'I'm sorry' in Spanish?
The most common way to say 'I'm sorry' in Spanish is 'lo siento.'
How do you pronounce 'lo siento' in Spanish?
It's pronounced 'loh see-EN-toh.' The stress falls on the second syllable. Listen to a native speaker to perfect your pronunciation.
How do you use 'lo siento' in a sentence?
You can use 'lo siento' on its own or add words for emphasis, such as 'mucho' (very) for 'lo siento mucho' (I'm very sorry). It's often followed by 'por' (for) when expressing sympathy or apologizing for a specific action, like 'Lo siento por la demora' (I'm sorry for the delay).
What is the English translation of 'lo siento'?
The English translation of 'lo siento' is 'I'm sorry' or 'I regret it.'
Does 'lo siento' change for gender or number?
No, 'lo siento' stays the same regardless of gender or who you are talking to.
Is 'lo siento' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'lo siento' is extremely common in everyday conversations. It's a crucial phrase to know for any Spanish learner.
Does 'lo siento' have slang or double meanings?
While 'lo siento' primarily means 'I'm sorry,' its literal translation is 'I feel it,' which occasionally carries a sense of empathy or regret for a situation beyond your control. In some contexts, it might sound a bit formal. In informal settings, you could use alternatives like 'perdón' (excuse me/sorry), 'disculpa' (excuse me/sorry), depending on the context.
Is 'lo siento' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The meaning and usage of 'lo siento' are generally consistent across Spain and Latin America. It's a universally understood and accepted way of apologizing.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "lo siento"

Synonyms: perdón, disculpa

💡 Did You Know?

The literal translation of 'lo siento' is 'I feel it.' This emphasizes the genuine feeling of regret or empathy implied in the apology.

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