ūtukū mwēo
In Kamba, "good night" is said as ūtukū mwēo.
ūtukū mwēo is used specifically as a farewell phrase when you are parting with someone at night or before going to sleep.
Meaning: a farewell (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of ūtukū, meaning night and mwēo, meaning good or well.
Did you know?
- The word mwēo used in this phrase shares a linguistic root with words describing health and being well, making the phrase a wish for physical vitality during rest.
- The structure of ūtukū mwēo follows a pattern common in Bantu languages where the adjective often follows the noun, which is the opposite of English word order.
Examples in context
- Ūtukū mwēo.Good night.
- Nītūkwende ūtukū mwēo.We wish you a good night.
Example conversation
Mumbua is leaving Kilonzo's house at night.
- MumbuaNīngendee, Kilonzo.I am leaving now, Kilonzo.
- KilonzoĪī, mumbua. Endaa nīkīo.Yes, Mumbua. Go safely.
- MumbuaŪtukū mwēo!Good night!
- KilonzoNa wīwe ūtukū mwēo.And you have a good night.
