Me ma wo adwo
The English phrase "good evening" is translated into Twi as Me ma wo adwo.
This phrase is used as an evening greeting. You may also encounter the shortened form Maadwo!, which literally translates to "blessed evening".
Meaning: greeting said in the evening (intj)
How does it change in a sentence?
To address more than one person when saying "good evening", change the word wo to mo to say Me ma mo adwo.
When do people say it?
When a male elder greets you with Me ma wo adwo, a common respectful way to respond is to say Yaa agya.
Did you know?
- Using the plural form Me ma mo adwo is not just for groups, but can be used as a mark of extreme respect when addressing a single person of very high status.
- In Akan culture, greetings like Me ma wo adwo are often accompanied by a slight nod of the head or a gesture of the right hand to show respect and openness.
- When responding to Me ma wo adwo, the response Yaa agya uses the word agya, which means 'father'. This is used for any older man, regardless of whether he is a biological relative.
Examples in context
- Me ma wo adwo.Good evening to you.
- Agya, me ma wo adwo.Father, good evening.
- Me ma wo adwo nyinaa.Good evening to you all.
Example conversation
Akua and Kwesi meet outside their homes at sunset.
- AkuaMe ma wo adwo, Kwesi.Good evening, Kwesi.
- KwesiAdwo!Good evening!
- AkuaWo ho te sɛn?How are you?
- KwesiMe ho ye, Akua.I am fine, Akua.
