Ndi khou humbela pfarelo
The Venda phrase for "sorry" is Ndi khou humbela pfarelo.
You use Ndi khou humbela pfarelo to express formal regret or to apologize for a mistake.
Meaning: expression of regret or sorrow (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, the phrase translates to "I am asking for forgiveness".
Did you know?
- In traditional Venda settings, a formal apology may involve a third party, such as an elder, to mediate the process of asking for pfarelo to ensure social harmony is restored.
- In many South African linguistic contexts, including Venda, an apology is often considered incomplete without a visible sign of remorse, such as lowered eyes.
- While Ndi khou humbela pfarelo is used for mistakes, Venda has separate ways to express 'sorry' for bereavement or misfortune that do not imply a request for forgiveness.
Examples in context
- Ndi khou humbela pfarelo nga zwenezwi.I am sorry for those things.
- Ndi khou humbela pfarelo nga u dzovhela.I am sorry for being late.
- Ndi khou humbela pfarelo nga u pfula mbilu.I am sorry for speaking my mind.
Example conversation
Ndivhuwo accidentally bumped into Azwathu at a market.
- NdivhuwoNdi khou humbela pfarelo, Azwathu.I am sorry, Azwathu.
- AzwathuHai, nne ndi khou humbela pfarelo.No, I am sorry too.
- NdivhuwoA hu na vhuloni.It is no problem.
- AzwathuNdi a livhuwa, Ndivhuwo.Thank you, Ndivhuwo.
