بخښنه غواړم
bakhshana ghwāṛam
The English phrase "sorry" is expressed in Pashto as بخښنه غواړم (bakhshana ghwāṛam).
بخښنه غواړم is used to express regret or to ask for pardon after a mistake or offense.
Meaning: expression of regret or sorrow (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the noun بخښنه (bakhshana) meaning "forgiveness" and the verb غواړم (ghwāṛam) meaning "I want".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Using the shorter form بښنه غواړم (bakhshana ghwāṛam) is common in more formal or standard settings.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb غواړم is the first-person singular present indicative form of غوښتل (ghwāṛtal), meaning "to want".
How do you pronounce it?
bakhshana ghwāṛam
Did you know?
- In traditional Pashtunwali, the ethical code of the Pashtun people, a formal apology like بخښنه غواړم may be insufficient if the offense caused a loss of 'nang' (honor), requiring a more complex ritual of reconciliation.
- The root of بخښنه is shared with the word for 'gift' or 'granting' in related languages, suggesting that asking for forgiveness is viewed as asking for a gift of grace.
- In many Pashtun cultures, apologizing is not just about the words, but is often accompanied by a gesture of placing one's hand over one's heart to show sincerity.
Examples in context
- زه له تاسو څخه بخښنه غواړم.ze la taso khakha bakhshana ghwaram.I apologize to you.
Example conversation
Khan accidentally steps on Zarkola's foot in a crowd.
- خان Khanبخښنه غواړم، زركولہ!Bakhshana ghwaram, Zarkola!I am sorry, Zarkola!
- زركولہ Zarkolaهیڅ خبره نه ده، خان.Hich khabara na da, Khan.It is no problem, Khan.
- خان Khanتاسو ته کوم زیان درکېږه؟Taso ta kom ziyan drakegah?Did you get hurt?
- زركولہ Zarkolaنه، زه ښه یم.Na, za kha yam.No, I am fine.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries بخښنه, CC BY-SA 4.0.
