Robalang gabotse
In Sepedi, the phrase for "good night" is Robalang gabotse.
The phrase Robalang gabotse is used specifically when someone is going to bed or when parting ways for the night.
Meaning: a farewell (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
This phrase is composed of the verb robala (sleep) and the adverb gabotse (well).
How does it change in a sentence?
In Robalang gabotse, the -ng suffix is added to robala. This is a common way to form the imperative or to soften the command into a wish or instruction.
Did you know?
- The adverb gabotse comes from the root botse, which refers to beauty. Effectively, you are wishing someone a 'beautifully' slept night.
- The root word robala can be used to describe not just human sleep but also the act of a physical object lying flat on the ground.
- In many Sepedi-speaking households, instead of saying 'good night', elders might simply say Go kene nako ya go robala to signal that it is time for rest.
Examples in context
- Robala ka kgotso, kgotso e be le wena.Sleep well, may it be peaceful with you.
- Ke a leboga, Robalang gabotse.Thank you, good night.
- Robalang gabotse, rra.Good night, sir.
Example conversation
Katlego and Lerato are saying goodbye before going to sleep.
- KatlegoKe nako ya go robala, Lerato.It is time to sleep, Lerato.
- LeratoEe, ke setse ke lapile.Yes, I am already tired.
- KatlegoRobalang gabotse.Good night.
- LeratoO be o Robale gabotse le wena.You sleep well too.
