patawad
/paˈtawad/
The English word "sorry" can be translated into Filipino as patawad. Wiktionary also lists paumanhin.
Meaning: expression of regret or sorrow (intj)
Ways to say it
| Filipino | IPA |
|---|---|
| patawad | /paˈtawad/ (Standard Tagalog) |
| paumanhin | /paʔumanˈhin/ (Standard Tagalog) |
These terms are used to express regret or sorrow. You can use paumanhin to apologize for minor inconveniences or small mistakes, such as being late. Use patawad when you are asking for forgiveness for a more serious offense or a significant mistake.
What does it mean word for word?
The word patawad acts as a noun or verb root that relates to the act of granting a pardon or forgiveness.
Which one should you use?
paumanhin is used for apologies or excuses regarding minor matters, whereas patawad is used specifically when seeking forgiveness or a pardon for something more serious.
How does it change in a sentence?
To make an apology polite and respectful toward elders or superiors, you can add the particle po to the word, as in paumanhin po.
How do you pronounce it?
/paˈtawad/
Did you know?
- The word patawad is built from the root tawad, which is the same word used when bargaining for a lower price at a market. To ask for forgiveness is, etymologically, to ask for a 'discount' on your mistake.
- In Filipino culture, a verbal apology is often considered incomplete without a physical gesture of humility, such as a slight bow or touching the hand of an elder to show sincere regret.
- While patawad is a heavy word for serious offenses, if you use it for a minor accident like bumping into someone, it can actually sound unintentionally dramatic or even comedic.
Examples in context
- Patawad at natakot kita.I'm sorry that I frightened you.This sentence shows how to use patawad to apologize for frightening someone.Tatoeba #9773194 by canonselphycp400, translation #7185997 by CK
- Paumanhin, wala akong barya.I'm sorry, but I don't have any small change.This sentence demonstrates the use of paumanhin when you lack small change.Tatoeba #10170290 by theSardonyx, translation #51426 by CK
- Paumanhin po sa pagkaantala.Sorry for the delay.This sentence uses paumanhin to apologize for a delay.Tatoeba #11460499 by qwertzu, translation #2419348 by erikspen
- Patawad po sa aking hindi tamang salita. Pangako, hindi na mauulit.Forgive me for my inappropriate words. I promise it won't happen again.
- Humihingi po ako ng dispensa sa aking kapabayaan. Pangako ko pong magiging maingat na ako sa susunod.I am asking for forgiveness for my negligence. I promise to be more careful next time.
- Pasensya na sa aking pagkalimot. Nakalimutan kong sabihin sa iyo.Sorry for forgetting. I forgot to tell you.
- Sori sa aking pagkakamali. Hindi ko sinasadyang masaktan ka.Sorry for my mistake. I didn't mean to hurt you.
- 10 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Jose accidentally broke Christina's favorite vase.
- JosePatawad, Christina. Nabasag ko ang plorera mo.I'm sorry, Christina. I broke your vase.
- ChristinaNaku! Paborito ko iyan.Oh no! That was my favorite.
- JosePatawad talaga. Papalitan ko ito agad.I'm really sorry. I will replace it immediately.
- ChristinaSige, tatanggapin ko ang iyong paumanhin.Alright, I accept your apology.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “sorry” translations and entries patawad, paumanhin, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries patawad, paumanhin, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
