عفوًا
'afwan
The English phrase "pardon me" is translated into Arabic as عفوًا ('afwan).
عفوًا is used to apologize for a small mistake or to get someone's attention, serving a similar function to "excuse me" in English. It can also be used specifically to mean "pardon me".
Meaning: sorry, as an apology (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is derived from a root meaning "to forgive" or "to pardon".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
عفوًا is the standard formal way to say "excuse me" or "pardon me" in Modern Standard Arabic, and it is widely understood across all Arabic dialects. For a more direct way to say "I apologize" in a formal context, you may use أعتذر.
How do you pronounce it?
'afwan
Did you know?
- While عفوًا is used for apologies, it is also the most common way to say 'you are welcome' in many Arabic-speaking regions.
- The word عفوًا shares a root with the concept of 'amnesty' in Arabic law, referring to a general pardon granted by a ruler.
- In a social setting, saying عفوًا while slightly bowing the head or placing a hand over the heart can signal a deeper level of sincerity.
Examples in context
- عفواً، أعتذر على التدخلPardon me, I apologize for the interruption
- آسف! ما قصديPardon me! I didn't mean to
- عفوًا، لقد تسببت في مشكلة.ʻafwan, laqad tasabbabtu fī mushkila.Pardon me, I caused a problem.
- عفوًا، لم أقصد ذلك.ʻafwan, lam aqsid dhalik.Pardon me, I did not mean that.
- أنا آسف جدًا، عفوًا.Ana āsi-f jid-dan, ʻafwan.I am very sorry, pardon me.
Example conversation
Ziad accidentally bumped into Sarah in a crowded hallway.
- زياد Ziadعفوًا، لم أكن أنتبه.ʻafwan, lam akun antabih.Pardon me, I was not paying attention.
- سارة Saraلا بأس يا زياد.Lā ba'sa yā Ziyād.It is okay, Ziad.
- زياد Ziadأنا حقًا آسف.Ana ḥaqqan āsi-f.I am truly sorry.
- سارة Saraحصل خير.Ḥaṣala khayr.No harm done.
