وبښئ
wbakhshey
In Pashto, "I am sorry" is expressed as وبښئ (wbakhshey).
This phrase is used to apologize for a mistake or to ask for forgiveness.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is the imperative form of the verb وبښل (to forgive), so it functions literally as "Forgive [me]".
Which one should you use?
The form وبښئ is the polite or plural version, whereas وبښه is the singular version used for informal situations.
How does it change in a sentence?
The default form وبښئ (wbakhshey) is the imperative plural or polite form. The singular/informal form وبښه (wbakh-a) is used when addressing a single person of equal or lower status, such as a friend or a child.
How do you pronounce it?
wbakhshey
When do people say it?
In Pashtun culture, it is common to place your right hand on your heart as a gesture of sincerity when apologizing.
Did you know?
- Beyond apologies for mistakes, وبښئ is the standard polite way to interrupt someone, acting as the Pashto equivalent of 'Excuse me'.
- If you use the informal singular form وبښه instead of the polite وبښئ when speaking to a stranger or an elder, you may be perceived as committing a serious social insult.
- The verb وبښل within the phrase implies a total clearing of a debt or wrong, making it far more weighty than the English 'excuse'.
Examples in context
- مهرباني وکړئ، ما وبښئ.meherbaani karkay, maa wbakhay.Please, forgive me.
- ما وبښئ، زه ناوړه شوم.maa wbakhay, za naara shum.Forgive me, I was wrong.
Example conversation
Omar accidentally bumps into Zarkola in a crowded room.
- عمر Omarبښنه غواړم، زركولہ، ما وبښئ.Bakhna ghwaram, Zarkola, ma wabakhshai.I am sorry, Zarkola, please forgive me.
- زركولہ Zarkolaهیڅ خبره نه ده، عمر.Hich khabara na da, Omar.It is no problem, Omar.
- عمر Omarتاسو څنګه یاست؟Taso sanga yast?How are you?
- زركولہ Zarkolaزه ښه یم، مننه.Za kha yam, manana.I am fine, thank you.
