How to Say “Bless You” in Navajo

By Trevor Fred • Updated October 3, 2026

tʼáá bił hazhóʼó

The phrase "bless you" in Navajo is tʼáá bił hazhóʼó.

This phrase is used as an interjection when someone sneezes.

Meaning: said to somebody who has sneezed (intj)

Did you know?

Instead of focusing on a divine blessing, the phrase tʼáá bił hazhóʼó literally translates to 'it is good for it' or 'it is good with it'.
Navajo is part of the Athabaskan language family, which means its distant linguistic relatives are found in Alaska and Canada rather than among neighboring Pueblo tribes.
The Navajo concept of 'blessing' is tied to hózhó, which refers to a state of harmony, balance and beauty rather than a religious plea.

Example conversation

Justin and Michelle are sitting in a living room together.

Justin

*sneezes*
*Sneezes*
Michelle

Tʼáá bił hazhóʼó, Justin!
Bless you, Justin!
Justin

Ahéheeʼ, Michelle.
Thank you, Michelle.
Michelle

Yáʼátʼééh.
You're welcome.

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About The Author

Trevor Fred

Hózhǫǫgi doo shikisheeshłį́į́gi, Trevor yinishyé. A polymath with a passion for decoding cultures, I've spent my life enjoying the poetry of the Navajo language, and reveling in the synchrony of sounds that make this Indigenous language so enchanting. When I'm not engrossed in articulating the intricacies of Navajo, you'll find me exploring the wild, chasing the autumn colors, or cuddling my cats and my dog named 'hogan'. Internet, grab your boots, and come ride with me on a linguistic adventure through the Navajo landscapes!

Trevor FredHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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