fakamolemole
The Tongan word for sorry is fakamolemole.
Fakamolemole is used to express an apology or regret, such as saying 'sorry' or 'I beg your pardon'. It is also used as a polite way to say 'please' when making a request.
Meaning: expression of regret or sorrow (intj)
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Fakamolemole is a polite and respectful term that is suitable for use in both formal and informal settings.
How does it change in a sentence?
To specify that you are apologizing to a person, you can add the particle atu after the word to form fakamolemole atu, which means 'I am sorry (to you)'.
Did you know?
- While fakamolemole is the standard for 'sorry', Tongan has a complex system of 'honorific' language where different words are used depending on whether you are speaking to royalty or a commoner.
- In Tongan culture, a sincere apology often involves a physical gesture of humility, such as bowing the head or lowering the body slightly while saying fakamolemole.
- The word fakamolemole is derived from the root molemole, which relates to the idea of pity or compassion rather than just a mistake.
Example conversation
Akuila accidentally bumps into Mele in a hallway.
- AkuilaFakamolemole, Mele, kuo hū kiate koe.Sorry, Mele, I bumped into you.
- Mele‘Oku faka’au pē, Akuila.It is alright, Akuila.
- AkuilaKu‘u fakamolemole au au.I am very sorry.
- Mele‘Oku lelei pē, ‘oku ou lelei.It is fine, I am okay.
