How to Say “Excuse Me” in Ilocano

By Gregory Jackson • Updated October 2, 2026

Maawan-dayawen

Maawan-dayawen is the Ilocano way to say excuse me as an apology.

Meaning: sorry, as apology (noun)

Did you know?

While English speakers use 'excuse me' to move through a crowd, using the direct Ilocano translation in that context might suggest you have actually offended someone's dignity.
The root word dayaw is also used to describe the act of praising or honoring someone, creating a linguistic link between an apology and a compliment.
If you are using the phrase to apologize for a small mistake, a local might suggest a shorter, less weighty term to avoid making the situation seem like a major breach of respect.

Example conversation

Cristina accidentally steps on Juan's foot.

Cristina

Maawan-dayawen, Juan, nasalabatka.
Excuse me, Juan, I stepped on you.
Juan

Awanen, Cristina. Okayak lang.
It's nothing, Cristina. I'm just okay.
Cristina

Sige, maawan-dayawen manen.
Alright, excuse me again.
Juan

Haanen, awanen dayta.
No, it's nothing.

⭐Share⭐ to appreciate human effort 🙏

About The Author

Gregory Jackson

Kumusta! I'm Gregory, your friendly guide to the Filipino language, Tagalog. My passion for languages, especially Tagalog, propels me into writing posts filled with formal and informal ways of expressing yourself in this vibrant language. From everyday greetings like "Good Evening", to unusual phrases such as "pak" or "nga", I've got you covered! I also have an obsession with food which often reflects in my posts — from "cereal" to "spaghetti", expect a dash of yummy in my content. I also write about Ilocano, the language of northern Luzon, sharing how everyday words are said in it. Mabuhay!

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

0 Comments

Newest

Oldest Most Voted