chisarai zvakanaka
In Shona, 'bye' is expressed as chisarai zvakanaka.
The phrase is used as a way to say goodbye, specifically when the person being spoken to is the one staying behind.
Meaning: short for goodbye (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to 'stay well'. chisarai is the imperative form of 'to stay/remain' and zvakanaka means 'well/good'.
Which one should you use?
While English speakers often use 'bye' as a general parting, Shona speakers distinguish between the person leaving and the person staying. Use chisarai zvakanaka (stay well) when the person being addressed is staying behind, and enda zvakanaka (go well) when the person being addressed is the one departing.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form chisarai zvakanaka uses the plural/polite imperative. This makes it appropriate for addressing more than one person or for addressing a single person in a respectful manner.
Did you know?
- Using the singular version of the verb instead of the plural chisarai when addressing an elder is not just seen as informal, but can be perceived as a sign of open aggression.
- Because Shona distinguishes between who stays and who goes, it is common for two people to exchange different phrases simultaneously: one says chisarai zvakanaka while the other replies enda zvakanaka.
- The phrase chisarai zvakanaka is grammatically a command, literally ordering the other person to remain in a good state.
Examples in context
- Chisarai zvakanaka.Bye.
- Chisarai zvakanaka, mhamha.Bye, mom.
- Chisarai zvakanaka, shamwari.Bye, friend.
Example conversation
Two friends parting ways after a meeting.
- NyashaNdinofara kuti takasangana, Tatenda.I am glad we met, Tatenda.
- TatendaIniwo Nyasha, tichona zvino.Me too Nyasha, we will see soon.
- NyashaChisarai zvakanaka!Bye!
