This is the 2867th most frequent Japanese word.
すみません
"すみません" means "Excuse me," "I'm sorry," or "Thank you" (for causing trouble).
Here, 'すみません' is used as a way to politely get someone's attention or to initiate a conversation with a stranger.
すみません、道に迷ってしまいました。
Excuse me, I got lost.
In this case, 'すみません' is used as an apology for a past event.
この間のことで、すみませんでした。
I apologize for what happened the other day.
Here, 'すみません' is used to politely request assistance or favor from someone.