How to Say “Good Luck” in Yoruba

By Tayla Jessica • Updated October 2, 2026

orire

The English phrase "good luck" is translated into Yoruba as orire.

orire is used to wish fortune upon someone or to provide encouragement.

Meaning: used to wish fortune on someone or as encouragement (intj)

What does it mean word for word?

The word can be broken down into its components, where the second part ire means goodness, blessing or luck.

Did you know?

In Yoruba culture, orire is not just chance but is often linked to the concept of 'Ori', the spiritual head or inner destiny of a person.
While orire wishes for general luck, Yoruba speakers may use the phrase Àṣẹ to firmly command that a blessing or a positive outcome manifest in reality.
In Yoruba culture, luck is often viewed as a tangible thing one can possess or encounter, rather than just an abstract concept.

Examples in context

Orire fun ẹ
Good luck to you.

Example conversation

Tunde is wishing Folake luck before her job interview.

Tunde

Orire, Folake!
Good luck, Folake!
Folake

Ese pupo, Tunde.
Thank you very much, Tunde.
Tunde

Ma se foya.
Do not be afraid.
Folake

Mo se tani.
I will try.

⭐Share⭐ to appreciate human effort 🙏

About The Author

Tayla Jessica

Mo n je Tayla, a lover of language and culture. When I'm not writing comprehensive guides to learning Yoruba, I escape into nature and daydream at the beach. Reading African literature, touring local markets, and cooking intercontinental dishes are just a few of my hobbies. By helping people understand Yoruba's intriguing idiomatic expressions and vibrant slang, I hope to bridge cultural gaps and promote unity. E se pupo for taking the time to read my work. My love for West African languages also led me to Fulani, and I now write guides on saying everyday words in Fulani too. Stay blessed.

Tayla JessicaHelp 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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