ezigbo nwoke
The English phrase "good man" is translated into Igbo as ezigbo nwoke.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of nwoke, which means "man".
Did you know?
- The word nwoke actually contains the linguistic root for 'child' or 'offspring', meaning a man is literally defined as a 'completed male offspring'.
- In Igbo culture, being an ezigbo nwoke often refers to moral character and leadership within the community rather than just being a 'nice' person.
- While English uses 'good' to describe many things, the specific nuance of ezigbo in this context focuses heavily on the concept of being 'true' or 'authentic'.
Examples in context
- Ọ bụ ezigbo nwoke m maara.He is a good man I know.
- Ị bụ ezigbo nwoke.You are a good man.
Example conversation
Nneka is telling Chidi about her new neighbor.
- ChidiOnye ọhụrụ bịara obodo anyị bụ onye ọma?Is the new person who came to our town a good person?
- NnekaEe, ọ bụ ezigbo nwoke.Yes, he is a good man.
- ChidiỊ nwere ike ịhụ ya?Can you see him?
- NnekaEe, Chidi, ọ na-enyere mọi onye aka.Yes, Chidi, he helps everyone.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries nwoke, CC BY-SA 4.0.
