nrog kev zoo siab
Congratulations in Hmong is nrog kev zoo siab.
Hmong speakers use nrog kev zoo siab to express congratulations or to share in someone's joy.
Meaning: expressing approbation (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to 'with happiness'. The component kev zoo siab means 'happiness' or 'joy'.
Did you know?
- The word siab used in nrog kev zoo siab refers to the 'liver'. In Hmong culture, the liver is viewed as the seat of emotions and the soul, rather than the heart.
- The word kev in this phrase originally meant 'road' or 'way'. In nrog kev zoo siab, it transforms a descriptive adjective into an abstract noun meaning 'happiness'.
Examples in context
- Kuv nrog kev zoo siab rau koj.I am happy for you.
- Nrog kev zoo siab rau koj txoj kev vam meej.Congratulations on your success.
Example conversation
Kao tells Cheng he got a new job.
- KaoKao: Nrog kev zoo siab, Cheng!Congratulations, Cheng!
- ChengCheng: Ua tsaug ntau, Kao.Thank you very much, Kao.
- KaoKao: Koj tau txais daim daim ntawv qhia lawm.You received the acceptance letter.
- ChengCheng: Tsim nyog kawg li.It is truly deserved.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries kev, siab, zoo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
