pè mí
The English phrase "call me" is translated into Yoruba as pè mí.
What does it mean word for word?
The expression is composed of two parts: pè, which means "call" and mí, which means "me".
Did you know?
- When speaking to an elder or someone in a position of high respect, you would not use mí to mean 'me', but instead use a more respectful pronoun form.
- Because Yoruba is a tonal language, the word pè must be pronounced with a specific pitch to avoid being confused with other words that sound similar but mean different things.
- The phrase is often used in Yoruba songs to signify a calling to spiritual or ancestral guidance, rather than just a telephone call.
Examples in context
- Bí o bá rí mi, pè mí.If you see me, call me.
Example conversation
Morenike is leaving the office and speaking to Olumide.
- MorenikeOlumide, mo ń lọ nísinsìnyí.Olumide, I am leaving now.
- OlumideÓ dábọ̀, Morenike.Goodbye, Morenike.
- MorenikeJọ̀ọ́, pè mí nígbà tí o bá parí iṣẹ́.Please, call me when you finish work.
- OlumideÓ dá, màá pè ẹ́.Okay, I will call you.
