Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
There are several ways to express an apology depending on the situation. Maaf is a simple and common way to say sorry in formal situations. For a more formal and polite expression, you can use Mohon maaf or Saya mohon maaf, which translates to "I apologize." In informal settings, such as among friends, family or peers, you might use Maaf ya. Additionally, the words Sory or Sori are informal versions influenced by English that are used especially among the younger generation.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word has several related grammatical forms. If you want to say "to forgive" someone, use the verb memaafkan. If you are asking someone to forgive you, use the imperative form maafkan, as seen in the phrase Maafkan aku (Forgive me).
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈmaaf/
Did you know?
- The word maaf has its roots in Arabic, originally meaning 'exempt' or 'free from a burden' such as a tax.
- During the annual Eid al-Fitr holiday, Indonesians practice Halal bi Halal, where people visit relatives specifically to say maaf and clear all past grudges.
- In Indonesian culture, a slight bow of the head or a gentle press of the palms together often accompanies maaf to show deeper sincerity.
Examples in context
- Maaf, ini semua salahku.Sorry. It's all my fault.This sentence shows how to use maaf to admit a mistake.Tatoeba #12747701 by HAGNi, translation #56374 by CK
- Maafkan aku sudah lahir.I'm sorry I was born.This sentence uses maaf in a dramatic expression of regret.Tatoeba #13075392 by Bilmanda, translation #4717566 by xorgy
- Maaf saya datang terlambat.Sorry I'm late for the meeting.This sentence shows how to use maaf to apologize for being late.Tatoeba #4398784 by Bilmanda, translation #22523 by CK
- Maaf ya, aku telat datangnya.Sorry, I'm late.
- Saya mohon maaf atas kesalahan yang telah saya buat.I apologize for the mistake I made.
- Maaf, ada kesalahpahaman di antara kita.Sorry, there was a misunderstanding between us.
- Maaf, saya tidak sengaja menabrak Anda.Sorry, I accidentally bumped into you.
- 46 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Sari accidentally spilled some water on Rian's notebook.
- SariMaaf, aku tidak sengaja menumpahkan airnya.Sorry, I accidentally spilled the water.
- RianTidak apa-apa, Sari. Jangan khawatir.It's okay, Sari. Don't worry.
- SariAku akan membantu mengeringkannya.I will help dry it.
- RianTerima kasih, tapi tidak perlu.Thank you, but it is not necessary.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “sorry” translations and entries maaf, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries maaf, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
