How to Say “Excuse Me” in Chamorro

By Marie Addison • Updated October 2, 2026

dispensa

dispensa is the Chamorro word for excuse me.

The word dispensa is used to express an apology or to say sorry.

Meaning: sorry, as apology (noun)

Did you know?

In many Chamorro-speaking communities, a sincere apology like dispensa is often accompanied by a slight bow or a specific lowering of the eyes to show respect to elders.
The word dispensa is a loanword from Spanish, reflecting the long period of Spanish colonial influence in the Mariana Islands.
Adding the word ya’mas after dispensa can further soften the apology, making it sound more heartfelt or pleading.

Example conversation

Maria accidentally bumps into Luis while walking.

Maria

Dispensa, Luis!
Excuse me, Luis!
Luis

Håga'åi, Maria.
It's okay, Maria.
Maria

Dispensa, na'ga.
I am really sorry.
Luis

Håga'åi, håga'åi.
It is fine, it is fine.

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About The Author

Marie Addison

Hola, I'm Marie. My passion for the Chamorro language led me to write comprehensive guides on different phrases and expressions. You may say I'm a language enthusiast with an affinity for teaching. When I'm not exploring new words and tutorials, I Iove to paint and play the ukulele. Avid traveler, foodie, and believer of cultural preservation, helping you learn how to say "Always" or "Angel" in Chamorro brings joy to my heart. My love for Chamorro led me to its neighbor Marshallese, and I now write guides on how to say things in Marshallese as well. Join me on this journey to learn and explore Chamorro.

Marie AddisonHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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