Tsalani bwino
Goodbye in Chichewa is Tsalani bwino.
Tsalani bwino is used to say farewell when you are the person who is leaving.
Meaning: farewell (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally means 'Stay well'.
Which one should you use?
Use Tsalani bwino (Stay well) when you are the one departing. If the person you are speaking to is the one leaving, you should instead use Pitani bwino (Go well).
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb tsalani is in the plural imperative form. This means it is used when addressing more than one person or when addressing a single person to show respect.
Did you know?
- The use of the plural form in Tsalani bwino when speaking to one person is an example of 'honorifics', where using the plural is a mandatory sign of respect for elders or strangers.
- Because Tsalani bwino means 'Stay well', it is common to respond with Pitani bwino meaning 'Go well' even if you are not the one leaving, creating a reciprocal wish of safety.
- The word bwino in this context functions as an adverb meaning 'well', but it is also the root for the Chichewa word for 'good'.
Examples in context
- Tsalani bwino.Goodbye.
Example conversation
Tionda and Lumbani are parting ways after a meeting at the market.
- TiondaLumbani, ndapita tsopano.Lumbani, I am leaving now.
- LumbaniChabwino, Tionda. Tsalani bwino.Alright, Tionda. Goodbye.
- TiondaZikomo kwambiri.Thank you very much.
- LumbaniChabwino, tisonana m'tsogolo.Okay, see you later.
