Manheru
Manheru is the Shona way to say good evening.
Manheru is used as a standard greeting when arriving or meeting someone during the evening hours.
Meaning: greeting said in the evening (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The word Manheru is derived from the root for 'evening' or 'night' and literally translates to 'evening'.
How does it change in a sentence?
While Manheru is the standard form, in highly formal or plural contexts, one might use Manheru enyu to address a group or an elder.
Did you know?
- In Shona culture, a greeting is often just the start of a ritualized exchange. After saying Manheru, it is customary to immediately ask about the person's wellbeing, such as 'Maswera sei?' (How has your day been?).
- In many Zimbabwean social settings, a verbal 'good evening' is often accompanied by a respectful nod or a slight bow, especially when addressing elders.
- Unlike the English 'good evening' which can be used both when arriving and leaving, Manheru is most commonly used as an arrival greeting. To say goodbye in the evening, other phrases are more common.
Examples in context
- Manheru kwese.Good evening to everyone.
Example conversation
Nyasha and Tinashe meet on the street at dusk.
- NyashaManheru, Tinashe.Good evening, Tinashe.
- TinasheManheru, Nyasha. Uri sei?Good evening, Nyasha. How are you?
- NyashaNdiri nani, maita henyu.I am well, thank you.
- TinasheZvakanaka.That is good.
