Uxolo
The Ndebele word for sorry is Uxolo.
Uxolo is used as an expression of regret or sorrow. It functions both as a way to apologize for a mistake and as a way to ask for forgiveness.
Meaning: expression of regret or sorrow (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The word Uxolo literally means peace or forgiveness.
How does it change in a sentence?
To use the word in a more personal way to say 'forgive me', you can add the possessive suffix -am to create Uxolo lwam, which means 'my forgiveness'.
Did you know?
- Because Uxolo means 'peace', it can be used as a greeting or a blessing, not just as an apology for a wrongdoing.
- In some traditional contexts, a formal apology involving Uxolo might be reinforced by the presence of an elder who mediates the forgiveness process.
- While Uxolo is used for apologies, Ndebele has distinct ways of expressing sympathy for a death that differ from a standard 'I am sorry'.
Examples in context
- Uxolo ngiphuthe.Sorry, I made a mistake.
- Uxolo kakhulu ngokulibala.Very sorry for forgetting.
- Uxolo ngakuhlupha.Sorry for bothering you.
Example conversation
Thandeka accidentally bumps into Thulani in a hallway.
- ThandekaUxolo, Thulani!Sorry, Thulani!
- ThulaniKulungile, Thandeka.It is okay, Thandeka.
- ThandekaAngizange ngikubone.I didn't see you.
- ThulaniAkulutho, ungazikhathazi.It is nothing, don't worry.
