Ni vosota sara
The Fijian way to say "sorry" is Ni vosota sara.
This phrase is used as an expression of regret or sorrow.
Meaning: expression of regret or sorrow (intj)
Did you know?
- While Ni vosota sara expresses regret, if you have caused a serious social offense, a formal apology might involve the presentation of a 'tabua' or whale's tooth.
- While English speakers say 'I am sorry', a Fijian speaker using Ni vosota sara is essentially saying 'May you forgive me', shifting the focus to the victim's grace.
- The word vosota is related to the concept of 'forgiveness' or 'passing over' a mistake, rather than the English concept of 'feeling sorrow'.
Examples in context
- Ni vosota sara na noqu cala.Please forgive my mistake.
- Ni vosota sara.I am very sorry.
Example conversation
Sereana accidentally bumps into Jone in a hallway.
- SereanaNi vosota sara, Jone!I am very sorry, Jone!
- JoneSega na Maki, Sereana.It is no problem, Sereana.
- SereanaAu sega ni raica iko.I did not see you.
- JoneYalo vinaka, sa vinaka ga.Thank you, it is all fine.
