How to Say “Sorry” in Ewe

By Andrew Brett • Updated September 29, 2026

baba

The Ewe word for sorry is baba.

baba is used as an expression of regret or sorrow.

Meaning: expression of regret or sorrow (intj)

Did you know?

If you use the wrong pitch while saying baba, you might accidentally say something that has no relation to regret or sorrow at all.
When someone says baba to you after a loss, it is customary to respond with a phrase of acceptance rather than just saying 'thank you'.
In some contexts, repeating the word as baba-baba can intensify the feeling of sympathy being offered to someone grieving.

Examples in context

Ewoo, medoa dzi o.
My bad, please forgive me.

Example conversation

Kafui accidentally bumps into Kwame in a hallway.

Kafui

Baba, Kwame! Meɖu wò.
Sorry, Kwame! I hit you.
Kwame

Enye nyuie, Kafui.
It's okay, Kafui.
Kafui

Mena wò nu vɔ̃?
Did I break something?
Kwame

Hanyi, nu menyɛ nu vovɔ.
No, nothing is wrong.

Sources

Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry baba, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.

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About The Author

Andrew Brett

Akwaaba! I'm Andrew, with a passion for Twi. I love sharing what I know, helping you navigate Twi from 'Good Morning' to 'Goodbye', from 'Aunt' to 'Uncle', and beyond. My posts shed light on formal and informal expressions, imbuing you with great confidence when you converse. But I'm not all about languages! I also enjoy afrobeat music, a competitive game of draughts, and I have a soft spot for kelewele, a spicy plantain dish. Alongside Twi, I have fallen for Ewe, so I now share guides on saying everyday words in Ewe too. Let's learn Twi together!

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

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