待たせてごめんね

The phrase combines several elements: * **待たせて (matasete):** This is the て-form of the verb 待たせる (mataseru), which means 'to make someone wait' or 'to cause someone to wait.' It's the causative form of 待つ (matsu, 'to wait'). The て-form here connects it to the apology. * **ごめん (gomen):** This is a common, informal Japanese apology, equivalent to 'sorry' or 'my bad.' It's a shortened and more casual form of 御免なさい (gomennasai), which itself derives from 御免 (gomen), a term historically used to grant permission or exemption, evolving to mean 'excuse me' or 'pardon me' when asking for forgiveness. * **ね (ne):** This is a sentence-ending particle that softens the statement, seeks confirmation, or adds a sense of camaraderie or intimacy. In this context, it makes the apology feel warmer and more personal, suitable for casual interactions with friends or family. Overall, the phrase literally translates to something like 'causing you to wait, sorry, [isn't it?]' and functions as a very common and friendly way to apologize for being late or for someone having to wait.