volunteer_activism How to say

Saying « sorry » in Fon

Apologizing in fɔ̀ngbè uses several phrases depending on the context: a light apology, deep regret, or reconciliation. Mì ɖè ku is the basic one.

schedule 4 min
signal_cellular_alt Beginner
1
Standard

Mì ɖè ku — the everyday phrase

Mì ɖè ku
Sorry / Excuse me
MìI / me
ÐèTo take out / to put down
KuFault / mistake
Mì ɖè ku tawùnReally sorry
2
Deep

For a serious wrong

Bo só un dó hùn weI ask your forgiveness
Un wà nyǎnyǎI did wrong
Sɔ́ ku ce kɛ́Forgive me (lit. cancel my fault)
Un sɔ́ wà mɔ̀ ǎI won’t do it again
Sɔ́ ku ce kɛ́
Forgive me — a phrase for reconciliation

These words spoken by a native speaker: Parlons Fongbe Academy — 79 video lessons with a native speaker.Discover

3
Reply

How to respond to an apology

Ðó hwɛ̌ ǎNo problem
Mì kɛ́ ku toweI have forgiven your fault
Yi tɔ́nIt’s fine (lit. it will end)
Ðó nù towe ǎDon’t worry about it
tips_and_updates

Culture

In Benin, a formal apology is often accompanied by a gesture: right hand on the heart or head slightly bowed. This shows the sincerity of the apology.

Forgiveness opens doors

Mì ɖè ku for everyday situations, Sɔ́ ku ce kɛ́ for serious wrongs. Knowing how to apologize in Fon = a sign of cultural respect.

à ≠ ǎ
One tone, and everything changes
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