معاف کیجئے
maaf kijiye
The Urdu phrase for "excuse me" is معاف کیجئے (maaf kijiye).
The phrase is used as an apology.
Meaning: sorry, as apology (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word معاف means forgiveness or pardon.
Which one should you use?
While معاف کیجئے is a polite request for forgiveness, the phrase معاف کرنا is the standard infinitive verb meaning "to forgive".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
معاف کیجئے is a polite and formal way to express yourself. In contrast, معاف کر دو is an informal or colloquial way to ask for forgiveness. For a highly formal expression of apology, you can use Maazrat Chahunga, which literally translates to "I would like to apologize".
How do you pronounce it?
maaf kijiye
Did you know?
- The phrase معاف کیجئے can be used ironically to express disbelief or a 'pardon me?' reaction when someone says something shocking.
- The root of the word معاف is actually connected to the concept of 'health' or 'well-being' in Arabic, rather than just 'forgiveness'.
- While معاف کیجئے is used for apologies, Urdu speakers often use the English phrase 'excuse me' when trying to get a stranger's attention in a crowded place.
Example conversation
Fatima accidentally bumps into Ali in a hallway.
- فاطمہ Fatimaاوہ، معاف کیجئے علی!Oh, maaf kijiyay Ali!Oh, excuse me Ali!
- علی Aliکوئی بات نہیں، فاطمہ۔Koi baat nahi, Fatima.No problem, Fatima.
- فاطمہ Fatimaمیں نے آپ کو دیکھا نہیں تھا۔Mein ne aap ko dekha nahi tha.I didn't see you.
- علی Aliٹھیک ہے، پریشان نہ ہوں۔Theek hai, pareshan na hon.It's okay, don't worry.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries معاف, CC BY-SA 4.0.
