Ke kopa tshwarelo
The Tswana way to say sorry is Ke kopa tshwarelo.
This phrase is used to express regret or sorrow. It functions as a standard way to say "I am sorry" in the sense of asking for forgiveness, though it is more literal than the English expression.
Meaning: expression of regret or sorrow (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of Ke (I), kopa (ask or request) and tshwarelo (forgiveness).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Ke kopa tshwarelo is a formal and polite way to express regret. It is suitable for more serious apologies or more respectful settings.
How does it change in a sentence?
Ke kopa tshwarelo is a complete sentence where Ke acts as the first-person singular subject pronoun and verb prefix.
Did you know?
- The root of tshwarelo comes from the verb tshwara, which means 'to hold' or 'to grasp'. In a cultural sense, asking for forgiveness is like asking the other person to 'hold' or 'keep' the offense rather than letting it cause a rift.
- Tswana is a tonal language, so the meaning and emotion of your apology can shift depending on the pitch you use when pronouncing the words.
- While Ke kopa tshwarelo is the standard for regret, Tswana speakers often use the word shala in contexts of mourning, which relates more to 'remaining' or 'staying behind' than to an apology.
Examples in context
- Ke kopa tshwarelo ka go go leela.I am sorry for making you cry.
- Ke kopa tshwarelo ka go se tle.I am sorry for not coming.
Example conversation
Kabo accidentally spills water on Tshepo's book.
- KaboOi! Ke kopa tshwarelo, Tshepo.Oh! I am sorry, Tshepo.
- TshepoGo siame, ga go na problema.It is okay, there is no problem.
- KaboA ke go thuse go imela pampiri e.Let me help you wipe this paper.
- TshepoKe a leboga, Kabo.Thank you, Kabo.
