How to Say “Congratulations” in Lingala

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mbote na esengo
mbote na esengo is the way to say congratulations in Lingala.
This phrase is used to express approbation.
Meaning: expressing approbation (intj)

What does it mean word for word?

The phrase contains the word esengo, which means joy or happiness.

Did you know?

  • The particle na in this phrase may have been shaped by West African languages like Igbo or Krio, rather than evolving purely within the Congo basin.
  • The term esengo can also be used in much more formal, spiritual contexts to describe divine bliss, far beyond a simple 'congratulations'.
  • Because esengo relates to 'happiness', using it to congratulate someone implies you are literally inviting joy into the interaction.

Example conversation

Grace tells Jean about his promotion at work.

  1. Grace

    Jean, oyebi ete okomi chef?
    Jean, do you know that you've become the boss?
  2. Jean

    Ee, nasalelaki mwa ntango.
    Yes, I worked for a little while.
  3. Grace

    Mbote na esengo, Jean!
    Congratulations, Jean!
  4. Jean

    Merci mingi, Grace.
    Thank you very much, Grace.

Sources

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Deborah Penelope
Deborah PenelopeHelp 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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