Litshonile
The Ndebele phrase for "good afternoon" is Litshonile.
Litshonile is used as a greeting once the sun has passed its zenith, typically from midday through the afternoon.
Meaning: greeting said in the afternoon (phrase)
When do people say it?
When someone greets you with Litshonile, a common way to respond is to say Yebo, litshonile.
Did you know?
- The phrase Litshonile is derived from the verb ukushona, which specifically means 'to set' in reference to the sun. Rather than wishing a 'good' afternoon, the greeting literally acknowledges that the sun has begun its descent.
- In Ndebele culture, greetings like Litshonile are often accompanied by a slight respectful nod, as verbal greetings are part of a larger non-verbal etiquette.
- Ndebele is a tonal language, meaning the pitch used to pronounce Litshonile is essential for being understood by native speakers.
Examples in context
- Litshonile, mama.Good afternoon, mother.
- Litshonile, mkhulu.Good afternoon, grandfather.
Example conversation
Bongani and Sibusisiwe meet on the street in the afternoon.
- SibusisiweLitshonile, Bongani!Good afternoon, Bongani!
- BonganiLitshonile, Sibusisiwe.Good afternoon, Sibusisiwe.
- SibusisiweUyaphi manje?Where are you going now?
- BonganiNgiya ekhaya.I am going home.
