nwayọọ
The Igbo phrase for calm down is nwayọọ.
nwayọọ is a verb used to describe the act of becoming less excited.
Meaning: To become less excited (verb)
Did you know?
- In Igbo culture, the concept of 'calming down' is tied to the value of 'ndidi', which means patience and is considered one of the highest moral virtues.
- In many Igbo dialects, repeating the word as nwayọọ nwayọọ transforms the instruction into a rhythmic, soothing chant often used to lull children to sleep.
- In some contexts, saying nwayọọ can act as a polite way to tell someone to 'lower their voice' without directly telling them to be quiet.
Examples in context
- Nwayọọ nwayọọ nwa m.Calm down, my child.
Example conversation
Ada finds Chidi very upset about a broken vase.
- AdaChidi, nwayọọ, ọ bụ naanị mkpụkpọ.Chidi, calm down, it is only a pot.
- ChidiMana ọ dị oke ọnụ!But it was very expensive!
- AdaNwayọọ, anyị ga-azụ nke ọhụrụ.Calm down, we will buy a new one.
- ChidiỌ dị mma, m ga-adị nwayọọ.Alright, I will be calm.
