U etlela kahle
Good night in Tsonga is U etlela kahle.
This phrase is used as a parting wish when someone is going to sleep or when leaving someone for the night.
Meaning: a farewell (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to You sleep well.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form U etlela kahle uses the singular subject pronoun U (you), making it appropriate for addressing one person. To say 'good night' to more than one person, change the subject pronoun U to Mi to get Mi etlela kahle.
Did you know?
- While English speakers use 'good night' as a general farewell after dark, Tsonga speakers typically reserve U etlela kahle specifically for when actual sleep is imminent. Using it too early in the evening might seem odd to a local.
- In Tsonga culture, the concept of 'sleeping' in a farewell is often a way of wishing for protection during the night's vulnerability. It is not just a comment on comfort, but a subtle wish for a peaceful and safe rest.
- The word etlela is derived from a verb root that describes the act of reclining or lying down, rather than just the unconscious state of sleep.
Examples in context
- U etlela kahle.Good night.
- U etlela kahle, xihlovo xanga.Good night, my dear.
Example conversation
Ntsiki is leaving her brother Xivani to go to sleep.
- NtsikiNdzi ya etlela swinasa, Xivani.I am going to sleep now, Xivani.
- XivaniU etlela kahle, Ntsiki.Good night, Ntsiki.
- NtsikiKutla hi minguva.See you in the morning.
- XivaniHikuwo, u etlela kahle.Indeed, good night.
