pẹ̀lẹ́
The English word "sorry" can be expressed in Yoruba as pẹ̀lẹ́.
pẹ̀lẹ́ is used to express sympathy or to console someone who is experiencing distress or misfortune.
Meaning: expression of regret or sorrow (intj)
Which one should you use?
While pẹ̀lẹ́ is used for sympathy, má bínú is the more appropriate way to apologize for a mistake or an offense.
Did you know?
- The word pẹ̀lẹ́ can also be used to tell someone to 'take it easy' or 'slow down' if they are rushing or acting agitated.
- In Yoruba culture, saying pẹ̀lẹ́ while performing a gentle pat on someone's shoulder or arm is a common way to convey physical comfort alongside the verbal sympathy.
- Depending on the tone used, pẹ̀lẹ́ can shift from a warm expression of sympathy to a sarcastic remark meaning 'too bad for you'.
Examples in context
- Pẹ̀lẹ́ o!Oh, sorry!
- Pẹ̀lẹ́, mi ò mọ̀.Sorry, I didn't know.
- Pẹ̀lẹ́ fún ohun tí ó ṣẹlẹ̀.Sorry for what happened.
Example conversation
Folake accidentally steps on Babatunde's foot.
- FolakePẹ̀lẹ́, Babatunde!Sorry, Babatunde!
- BabatundeKò tọ́ pé o máa sọ bẹ́ẹ̀.It's okay.
- FolakeMo bẹ́ ẹ lọ́wọ́ níṣóró.I stepped on you by mistake.
- BabatundeKò sí ìṣòro, Folake.No problem, Folake.
