Сайхан амраарай
Saikhan amraarai
The English phrase "good night" is translated into Mongolian as Сайхан амраарай (Saikhan amraarai).
Сайхан амраарай is used specifically when someone is going to sleep or when you are parting ways late at night.
Meaning: a farewell (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "Have a good rest". The word Сайхан means "good" or "beautiful" and амраарай is the imperative form of the verb "to rest".
How do you pronounce it?
Saikhan amraarai
Did you know?
- Because амраарай is an imperative form, the phrase is technically a command to 'rest well' rather than a passive wish for a 'good night'.
- In traditional Mongolian culture, the concept of 'rest' амрах can include spiritual or mental peace, not just physical sleep.
- While English uses 'good' for many greetings, Mongolian distinguishes between 'good' as in 'correct' зөв and 'good' as in 'beautiful or pleasant' сайхан.
Examples in context
- Сайхан амраарай, маргааш уулзаарай.Saikhan amraarai, margaash uulzaarai.Good night, see you tomorrow.
- Би одоо явъя, сайхан амраарай.Bi odoo yavya, saikhan amraarai.I will go now, good night.
- Хүүхдүүдээ, сайхан амраарай.Khüükdüüdee, saikhan amraarai.Good night, children.
Example conversation
Two family members are going to bed.
- Анхбаяр AnkhbayarБи унтах гэж байна.Bi untakh gej baina.I am going to sleep.
- Төмөр TumurЗа, сайхан амраарай, Анхбаяр.Za, saikhan amraarai, Ankhbaiyar.Okay, good night, Ankhbaiyar.
- Анхбаяр AnkhbayarЧи ч бас сайхан амраарай, Төмөр.Chi ch bas saikhan amraarai, Tumur.You too, good night, Tumur.
- Төмөр TumurБаяртай.Bayartai.Goodbye.
