ka ọ dị
The Igbo phrase for goodbye is ka ọ dị.
ka ọ dị is used as a farewell when parting ways with someone.
Meaning: farewell (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, ka ọ dị translates to let it be or may it be.
How does it change in a sentence?
ka ọ dị is a fixed expression for farewells and does not change based on the number of people you are addressing.
Did you know?
- While ka ọ dị is a general farewell, Igbo speakers may use the word ndewo both as a greeting when arriving and as a way to acknowledge a parting.
- In traditional Igbo settings, a farewell is rarely just a word and often involves a series of inquiries about the family members the person is leaving behind.
- In certain dialects, the tone and pitch of the words in a farewell can completely change whether you are wishing someone well or simply stating a fact.
Examples in context
- I meela, ka ọ dị.Thank you, goodbye.
- Ka ọ dị, anyị ga-ahụ.Goodbye, we will see each other.
Example conversation
Emeka and Chioma are finishing a chat at a market.
- EmekaI ga-aga ugbu a?Are you leaving now?
- ChiomaEe, ka ọ dị, Emeka.Yes, goodbye, Emeka.
- EmekaKa ọ dị, Chioma.Goodbye, Chioma.
- ChiomaKa ọ dị.Goodbye.
