๐Ÿ›๏ธ Latin phrases

How to Say "I'm sorry" in Latin

The SPAIKING TeamJuly 27, 2026
Me paenitet
"I'm sorry" in Latin ยท say it like may pah-neh-teet

The most natural way to say "I'm sorry" in Latin is Me paenitet. Tap the speaker above to hear it, then say it back out loud. That is the fastest way to make it stick.

Other ways to say it

Ignosce mihi
Used in more formal contexts or when asking for forgiveness
Mea culpa
Literally means 'my fault', used to admit a mistake

When to use it

Use 'Me paenitet' when you want to express regret or apology. It is suitable in both formal and informal situations. You can use it when you have made a mistake or when you feel sympathy for someone else's situation.

Say it out loud, get corrected

Reading it is not the same as saying it. Practice "I'm sorry" and thousands more with an AI coach that listens.

Examples in Latin

LatinEnglish
Me paenitet quod te laesi.I am sorry that I hurt you.
Me paenitet, non volui id facere.I am sorry, I did not mean to do that.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse 'Me paenitet' with 'Mea culpa', but they have different uses.

The fastest way to remember it

Vocabulary you only read fades fast. Vocabulary you say out loud sticks. Hear Me paenitet, repeat it a few times, then use it in a real sentence. SPAIKING lets you practice exactly that, speaking Latin with a coach that corrects your pronunciation in real time. You can start with two free conversations.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a more formal way to apologize in Latin?

Yes, 'Ignosce mihi' is a more formal way to ask for forgiveness.

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