sib ntsib dua
/ʂi˥.ᶯd͡ʐi˥.duə̯˧/
The Hmong phrase for goodbye is sib ntsib dua.
sib ntsib dua is used when parting ways with the implication of meeting again in the future.
Meaning: farewell (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally means 'meet again'. The word ntsib means to meet or encounter.
How do you pronounce it?
/ʂi˥.ᶯdʐi˥.duə̯˧/
Did you know?
- The word dua is etymologically related to the concept of 'tearing', a stark contrast to the peaceful sentiment of 'meeting again'.
- Because sib ntsib dua implies meeting again, it is rarely used if the speaker believes they will never see the other person again.
- The Hmong language uses a complex system of tones, meaning that changing the pitch of the words in sib ntsib dua can completely change their meaning.
Examples in context
- Sib ntsib dua.Goodbye.
- Thov sib ntsib dua.Please, let us meet again.
Example conversation
Kao and Tou are finishing a conversation at a local market.
- KaoKao yuav mus lawm.Kao is leaving now.
- TouSib ntsib dua, Kao.Goodbye, Kao.
- KaoSib ntsib dua, Tou.Goodbye, Tou.
- TouZoo siab ntsib koj.It was good seeing you.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “goodbye” translations and entries sib ntsib dua, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries dua, sib, CC BY-SA 4.0.
