Shitsurei desu ga and Sumimasen

[Canis]

Hello all!

I've just learning Japanese 2 weeks ago.. but I've studied Kana and Hiragana by myself.. can u tell me the difference between ar
"shitsurei desu ga?" and "sumimasen". According to my teacher, they are the same, which is (excuse me.).. but I often see people say "sumimasen".

Can u help me?

Best Regards

 

[FinancialWar]

yes, they are the same if you just want to get people attention.

 

[Toritoribe]

Hello all!

I've just learning Japanese 2 weeks ago.. but I've studied Kana and Hiragana by myself.. can u tell me the difference between ar
"shitsurei desu ga?" and "sumimasen". According to my teacher, they are the same, which is (excuse me.).. but I often see people say "sumimasen".

Can u help me?

Best Regards

"Shitsurei desu ga" is used when asking about the things regarding the addressee.
e.g.
May I ask your occupation?
Shitsurei desu ga, goshokugyō wo oshiete itadakemasen ka?

Excuse me, but are you possibly Mr.Tanaka?
Shitsurei desu ga, Tanaka-san de wa arimasen ka?


On the other hand, "Sumimasen" is used for asking the addressee to do somthing (for the speaker).
e.g.
Could you open the window?
Sumimasen, mado wo akete moraemasen ka?

Could you tell me what time it is?
Sumimasen, ima nanji de shō ka?

"Sumimasen" also can mean "thank you" or "I'm sorry".