na wo nso
The English phrase "and you" is translated into Twi as na wo nso.
This phrase is used as a conversational reciprocal to return a greeting or a question (such as 'How are you?') back to the speaker.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "and you also", where na means "and", wo means "you" and nso means "also" or "too".
Did you know?
- Twi is a tonal language, meaning the pitch used to say na wo nso can change the meaning of the words if not pronounced with the correct inflection.
- While wo means 'you', Twi has different pronouns for 'you' depending on the social status of the person, and using the wrong form of 'you' in a reciprocal greeting can be seen as rude.
- Using na wo nso too abruptly without a preceding greeting can sometimes feel dismissive, as Twi social etiquette heavily favors elaborate verbal exchanges.
Examples in context
- Ɛyɛ fɛ, na wo nso?It is beautiful, and you?
- M'ani agye, na wo nso?I am happy, and you?
Example conversation
Kofi and Adwoa meet on the street.
- KofiEtisɛn, Adwoa?How is it, Adwoa?
- AdwoaMe ho ye, na wo nso?I am fine, and you?
- KofiMe nso me ho ye.I am also fine.
- AdwoaMo ne yie.Goodbye.
