mbote na ntɔ́ngɔ́
The English phrase "good morning" is mbote na ntɔ́ngɔ́ in Lingala.
Use mbote na ntɔ́ngɔ́ specifically when greeting someone for the first time during the early hours of the day.
Meaning: when seeing someone for the first time in the morning (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of mbote (hello/peace), na (to/with) and ntɔ́ngɔ́ (morning).
Which one should you use?
While mbote can be used as a standalone greeting at any time of day, mbote na ntɔ́ngɔ́ is specific to the morning.
Did you know?
- Lingala is a vehicular language, meaning it was developed to allow different ethnic groups to communicate, which is why greetings like mbote na ntɔ́ngɔ́ are understood across diverse tribal lines.
- In urban Lingala, especially in Kinshasa, speakers often shorten greetings or blend them with French, meaning you might hear mbote followed by the French 'bonjour' in the same breath.
- In many Central African cultures, a morning greeting is often accompanied by a subtle nod or a slight hand gesture to show respect to elders.
Examples in context
- Mbote na ntɔ́ngɔ́!Good morning!
- Mbote na ntɔ́ngɔ́ na bino.Good morning to you all.
- Mbote na ntɔ́ngɔ́, maman.Good morning, mother.
Example conversation
Jean meets Clarisse in the garden early in the morning.
- JeanMbote na ntɔ́ngɔ́, Clarisse!Good morning, Clarisse!
- ClarisseMbote na ntɔ́ngɔ́, Jean.Good morning, Jean.
- JeanOza malamu?Are you well?
- ClarisseEe, nazali malamu.Yes, I am well.
