快速答案
apagar 是日常的擦除、删除或关掉；excluir 强调从系统或集合中移除。
可靠的方法是先判断这个词在句子里的功能，再翻译。
每个词的作用
apagar
to erase, delete, or turn off
Use apagar for removing visible content, extinguishing light or fire, or deleting informally.
excluir
to delete, exclude, or remove
Use excluir for formally removing an item from a system, list, set, or group.
如何选择
- apagar: Choose apagar if the sentence points to removing visible content, extinguishing light or fire, or deleting informally.
- excluir: Choose excluir if the sentence points to formally removing an item from a system, list, set, or group.
例句
Apaguei a mensagem por engano.
I deleted the message by mistake.
Exclua o cadastro duplicado.
Delete the duplicate registration.
常见误区
Only apagar works for lights and fires: apagar a luz, apagar o incêndio. Excluir does not mean switch off.
放到语境中练习
从你的真实生活中选一个句子，写两遍：一次用 apagar，一次用 excluir。如果两个版本都可以，说明意思怎样变化。