e kala mai
In Hawaiian, "excuse me" is translated as e kala mai.
e kala mai is a formal phrase used to say "forgive me" or "pardon me." It is typically used when you are apologizing for interrupting someone or for causing an inconvenience.
Meaning: sorry, as apology (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the particle e and the verb kala mai, which literally means to forgive, release or free.
Which one should you use?
the shorter form e kala is also a formal expression meaning "forgive me" or "I'm sorry" and can be used when asking for permission.
How does it change in a sentence?
The particle e at the beginning of the phrase functions as an imperative or hortative marker, which turns the verb into a request or command.
Did you know?
- The word kala in the phrase e kala mai shares a surprising ancestral root with words meaning 'spine' or 'thorn' in other Polynesian languages. To forgive someone is, in a way, to remove the 'prongs' or sharp edges of a situation.
- The word mai is a directional particle that often indicates movement toward the speaker. Using it in an apology can imply that the forgiveness or the relief of the mistake should come toward you.
- Because kala means 'to release', the phrase e kala mai is used not only for apologies but also when asking for a physical release or a loosening of a grip.
Examples in context
- E kala mai.Excuse me.
- E kala mai i ka pilikia.Excuse me for the trouble.
Example conversation
Noelani accidentally bumps into Kai while walking.
- NoelaniE kala mai, Kai.Excuse me, Kai.
- KaiʻAʻole he mea, Noelani.It is nothing, Noelani.
- NoelaniUa loaʻa au i kou kī.I found your key.
- KaiMahalo nui iā ʻoe.Thank you very much.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “excuse me” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries kala, mai, CC BY-SA 4.0.
