lo siento
Lemma Details
Translation: I'm sorry; I apologize; I regret; I feel sorry
Part of Speech: phrase
Etymology: This common Spanish phrase comes from the verb 'sentir' (to feel) with the direct object pronoun 'lo' (it). Literally, it means 'I feel it.' The verb 'sentir' derives from Latin 'sentire' (to feel, perceive), which is also the root of English words like 'sentiment,' 'sensitive,' and 'sensory.' The construction shows how Spanish often uses the verb 'sentir' to express regret or apology, whereas English uses 'sorry' (from Old English 'sarig' meaning 'distressed, grieved, full of sorrow').
Commonality: 95%
Guessability: 30%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'sentir' as 'to sense' or 'to feel' - you're literally saying 'I feel it' when expressing regret.
- Imagine 'lo siento' as feeling the weight of your mistake - you're carrying the sensation of regret.
- Connect it to English 'sentiment' - you're expressing a sentiment of regret.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This is one of the most common expressions in Spanish, used in both casual and formal situations. Spanish speakers tend to use 'lo siento' for both minor inconveniences and more serious apologies, though the intensity can be modified with adverbs like 'mucho' (very much). In some Latin American countries, 'disculpa' or 'perdón' might be more common for minor apologies.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Lo siento' is the complete phrase meaning 'I'm sorry,' while 'siento' alone just means 'I feel' and needs an object or complement.
Confused word:
Siento frío en esta habitación.
I feel cold in this room.
Notes: The 'lo' in 'lo siento' refers to the regret or the situation causing the apology, making it a fixed expression.
Mnemonic: 'Lo' makes it about regret - without 'lo,' you're just feeling something else.
Explanation: 'Lo siento' is present tense and used for apologies, while 'lo sentí' is past tense and typically means 'I felt it' referring to a physical or emotional sensation in the past.
Notes: The tense change completely alters the meaning and usage context.
Mnemonic: Present tense (siento) = present apology; past tense (sentí) = past feeling.