What it means
てすみません expresses an apology for an action or situation. It follows the て-form of a verb and is commonly used when the speaker feels responsible for causing trouble, inconvenience, or a negative result. The expression is polite and is suitable for everyday apologies. A familiar counterpart is てごめん.
Usage note
てすみません is different from ませんか, which is used to make a suggestion or invitation. For a stronger or more formal apology, use a longer expression such as 申し訳ありません.
How to use it
約束を忘れてすみません。
I am sorry for forgetting the promise.
約束を忘れてごめん。
I am sorry for forgetting the promise.
