Samahani
The Swahili phrase for "excuse me" is Samahani.
Samahani is a common phrase used to apologize or politely ask for someone's attention or permission.
Meaning: sorry, as apology (noun)
Which one should you use?
While Samahani is used for an apology for one's own actions, Pole is used to express sympathy or condolences for someone else's misfortune.
How does it change in a sentence?
Samahani functions as an interjection and does not change its form based on the person being addressed or the number of people involved.
Did you know?
- The word Samahani is a linguistic fossil of the historical trade networks between the East African coast and the Arabian Peninsula, as it is a direct loanword from Arabic.
- The Arabic root of Samahani is linked to the concept of 'generosity' or 'forgiveness', implying that by saying it, you are asking the listener to be generous with their pardon.
- In many Swahili-speaking contexts, saying Samahani while subtly gesturing with a slight bow or a hand to the chest can heighten the perceived respectfulness of the apology.
Examples in context
- Samahani, unaweza kuniinulia sanduku tafadhali?Excuse me but, would you kindly lift that box for me?This sentence shows how to use Samahani when politely asking for assistance.Tatoeba #10813849 by ecorralest101, translation #65010 by CK
- Samahani, naweza kuuliza swali?Excuse me, may I ask a question?
- Pole, sikukusudia kukugonga.Excuse me, I didn't mean to bump into you.
- Samahani, nimechelewa.Excuse me, I am late.
- Samahani, nimechelewa kufika.Excuse me, I am late arriving.
Example conversation
Fatuma accidentally bumps into Omari in a hallway.
- FatumaSamahani, Omari, sikukuona.Sorry, Omari, I didn't see you.
- OmariHaina shida, Fatuma.No problem, Fatuma.
- FatumaUmeumia popote?Are you hurt anywhere?
- OmariHapana, niko sawa.No, I am fine.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries samahani, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
